DUT project rehabilitates drug users
A demonstration project, currently underway in Durban, aims to bring hope to some drug users and their families.
The 18-month opioid substitution therapy demonstrations are being carried out by the Urban Futures Centre, at the Durban University of Technology.
The centre's Professor Monique Marks says that the programme uses pharmaceutically produced methadone, a drug helps people by weaning them off other stronger drugs such as whoonga.
"The first beneficiary, his name is Keaton. When he came to the programme, he was living both on the streets and occasionally in a shelter when he could afford it. He had no connection with his family, he did not have a job. He's now employed part-time, renting a room at the back of someone's house and he has reconnected with his entire family," she said.
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A total of 19 beneficiaries, aged between 19 and 45, are taking part in the projects. The UFC hosts a seminar every Wednesday, as well as public debates on issues of public interest.
Meanwhile, UFC, the TB/HIV Care Association along with academics and members of the community held a march yesterday, from Bulwer Park to Umbilo, highlighting the issue of drugs in the city.
Listen to the full bulletin below.