Addicts being taught vocational skills at Helmand hospital

LASHKARGAH (Pajhwok): Drug addicts are being imparted vocational trainings in addition to their treatment at the rehabilitation centre in southern Helmand province.

Dr. Alauddin Ihsan, head of the 100-bed rehabilitation hospital, told Pajhwok Afghan News the addicts were taught skills in addition to their physical and psychological treatment.

He said about 600 addicts were currently under treatment at the facility and 100 of them were learning tailoring and motorcycle repair skills organized by the Department of Technical and Vocational Education.

He added: “About 40 addicts are learning motorcycle repairing and 60 tailoring skills.”

The addicts were pleased with the services at the rehab center and asked the caretaker government to provide them with job opportunities after their recovery.

Ihsanullah, who consumed drugs for about 17 years, says: “I am being treated at the hospital and also taught motorcycle repairing skill. I will not turn to drugs again.”

About 13,537 addicts, including 300 women, have been discharged this hospital from their treatment during the past three years.

kk/ma