In a collaborative effort to ensure the safety of schoolchildren, Egyptian authorities have conducted a comprehensive screening of school bus drivers for drug use. The initiative, led by Dr. Amr Othman, director of the Fund for Combating and Treating Addiction and Abuse, involved the screening of 2,594 drivers in various governorates. The campaign, which began in the first month of the 2026/2027 academic year, aims to detect and prevent drug use among drivers responsible for transporting students to and from schools.
The screening, conducted in partnership with the General Administration for Combating Narcotics, the General Administration for Traffic, and the Central Administration for the Secretariat of Mental Health at the Ministry of Health, revealed that 15 drivers tested positive for drug use, specifically hashish and tramadol. These individuals have been referred to the Public Prosecution on charges of driving under the influence of narcotics. Furthermore, the Ministry of Education has been notified to take necessary actions, including terminating their employment if they are found to be working in schools.
The campaign is part of a larger effort to ensure the safety and well-being of schoolchildren. The Fund for Combating and Treating Addiction and Abuse has emphasized that these campaigns will continue throughout the academic year, with a focus on expanding the screening to cover more governorates. Drivers found to be using drugs will face legal consequences, and their employment in schools will be terminated. The fund has also urged parents and guardians to report any suspected cases of drug use among school bus drivers through a dedicated hotline.
The fund has highlighted the importance of vigilance in identifying potential signs of drug use among drivers. Some common indicators include red eyes, dark circles under the eyes, aggressive behavior, lack of balance, and erratic driving. By reporting these signs, parents and guardians can help prevent potential risks to schoolchildren. The authorities have assured that reports will be investigated, and swift action will be taken against drivers found to be using drugs.
The collaborative effort between various government agencies and the Fund for Combating and Treating Addiction and Abuse demonstrates a commitment to addressing the issue of drug use among school bus drivers. By working together, the authorities aim to create a safer environment for schoolchildren and prevent potential risks associated with drug use. The screening campaigns will continue to be conducted throughout the academic year, with a focus on ensuring the safety and well-being of students.
The Fund for Combating and Treating Addiction and Abuse has encouraged parents and guardians to play an active role in reporting suspected cases of drug use among school bus drivers. The dedicated hotline, 16023, provides a confidential and secure channel for reporting concerns. By working together, the authorities and the public can help prevent the risks associated with drug use among school bus drivers and ensure a safer environment for schoolchildren.
The Egyptian authorities' efforts to address drug use among school bus drivers demonstrate a proactive approach to ensuring public safety. By conducting comprehensive screenings and taking swift action against drivers found to be using drugs, the authorities aim to prevent potential risks and create a safer environment for schoolchildren. The collaborative effort between government agencies and the public will continue to be crucial in addressing this issue.
Key points
- Egyptian authorities screen 2,594 school bus drivers, detect 15 cases of drug use
- Drivers found to be using drugs face legal consequences, including termination of employment in schools
- Parents and guardians can report suspected cases of drug use among school bus drivers through a dedicated hotline, 16023
