Reports are that a number of Jamaican high school students are abusing synthetic drugs.
January 29, 2025
KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information says it has not identified any incidents of the ‘strawberry quick’ drug in Jamaican schools.
Education Minister Dana Morris Dixon said, “there are no verified reports of ‘strawberry quick’ in our schools. Nonetheless, we are urging all parents to have open conversations with their children about the dangers of accepting food or candy from unknown sources. The safety of our children is our top priority. Schools are also being advised to reinforce these messages and to report any suspicious activity immediately.”
The minister was speaking against the background of reports that the drug is being circulated locally and comes just over a year after dozens of students at the Ocho Rios Primary were sickened when marijuana-laced sweets were sold to them in 2023.
The ministry is now encouraging parents and students to:
not accept unfamiliar candies or treats – children should be warned not to consume food items received from strangers or even friends without knowing the source;
report suspicious activity – any reports of suspicious substances should be immediately reported to school officials or the police;
seek immediate medical attention – if ingestion is suspected, medical help should be sought without delay by calling emergency services.
The ministry says it will continue to actively monitor and work closely with law enforcement and school administrators to ensure the safety of students.