The National Drug Agency (NDA) has initiated discussions to improve the training of counsellors who support individuals recovering from substance use..

The discussions took place between the NDA, the Ministry of Health, and Allied Health Council, with a shared goal of reducing substance dependency across all islands of the Maldives through improved counselling services.

NDA Chairperson Lubna Zahir Hussain explained that the training programme will primarily be conducted online, with certain components delivered in person.

Additionally, Lubna highlighted the ongoing efforts of the National Institute for Research and Addictions Studies, which plans to conduct research later this year using data from the NDA. The study aims to provide a deeper understanding of substance use trends in the Maldives.

Lubna expressed hope that this initiative would help establish a network of qualified addiction counsellors on every island of the Maldives, ensuring that individuals struggling with substance dependency have access to professional support services.

In addition to training of counsellors, the NDA is also preparing to enforce legal measures against individuals who do not comply with treatment programmes, in collaboration with the drug court.