RSIPF Copen Awareness

THE DRUM @WOODFORD

By Idamali Wickham

On the 16th of August we were privileged enough to have the RSIPF over and have them talk to us to spread awareness about a current rise in Copen usage.

Moments prior to the important discussion, one of the officers who is from New Zealand had presented a self-announcing performance and told us the culture behind it, this led to the secondary school singing the song ‘Waka Bouti Long Chinatown’ in return to respect his culture.

This celebration not only highlighted the greatness of cultures but also emphasized the importance of unity and understanding in an increasingly interconnected global society. It served as a reminder that despite our differences, we are all part of one global family, each contributing to the vibrant mosaic that is our world.

They have gone to 32 different schools in and around Honiara to inform students and teachers alike about the causes and effects of this drug. It seems that in many schools, students have been peer pressured into using this or have felt the need to use it to fit in with certain groups in their schools. They have also said that some of the other reasons behind it were because of low self-esteem, lack of support and opportunities, boredom, ‘being young’, and generally using it to relieve themselves from the stress they are facing. It has also been mentioned that they do not know where the Copen is being made and have tested it to find that it was made of the Tobacco leaf and other substances.

This is extremely harmful to the human body and it is dangerous to take it especially when the possibilities of the creators adding more harmful substances into it are high, therefore we should be educated and stay Copen free.

W.I.S Rugby Team Faces Narrow Defeat Against KG: A Spirited Display of Sportsmanship

By Tanya Yee and Tyronne Tongi

In a closely contested match that kept spectators on the edge of their seats, the W.I.S Rugby Team put up a valiant fight against KG, showcasing their unwavering determination and sportsmanship on the field. Though the final score may read 3-0 in favour of KG, the true winners of the day were the players and fans who witnessed an intense display of rugby prowess.

Despite the relentless efforts from W.I.S., the KG team managed to break through their defence and secure a crucial try. It was a hardfought point, but it tipped the balance in favour of KG, ultimately leading to their 3-0 victory. However, the closeness of the scoreline highlights just how evenly matched these two teams. The rugby community also commended both teams for displaying excellent sportsmanship throughout the match. There were no unsportsmanlike incidents, and players from both sides shook hands with genuine respect after the game.

Though the scoreboard may have favoured KG, the true essence of rugby prevailed on the field unity, tenacity, and respect for the sport and one another. The W.I.S Rugby Team may have lost the match, but they emerged victorious in the hearts of their supporters, who recognize the indomitable spirit of their team and eagerly await the next thrilling encounter on the rugby field.

World War Africa?

Tensions rose in western Africa following the successful coup in Niger on July 26 where the junta military seized control of the government and on August 10 announced a new government in Niger under General ‘Abdourahamane Tchiani’. This has split west Africa into two sides with Guinea, Burkina Faso, and Mali supporting the military takeover and the Rest of the ECOWAS (Economic community of west African states) opposing and both sides threatening military action. Worse yet, the Junta terrorists have the support of Russia andChina supplying weapons and ammunition. This is likely to be one of the world’s largest conflicts since WWII.

The match started with both teams demonstrating exceptional skill and strategy. The W.I.S team, known for their cohesive gameplay and strong offence, gave KG a run for their money. The score remained at a deadlock for most of the game, as each side thwarted the other’s attempts to gain the upper hand. The spectators were treated to a thrilling spectacle of grit and passion from both teams. The rugby pitch turned into a battleground, with players fearlessly diving into tackles, sprinting across the field, and executing clever plays. Each try was met with cheers from the fans, urging their respective teams to push harder and reach the end zone.

Breakthrough to Help Save Environment

A scientist in Virginia, USA has just discovered a way to turn one of the most common plastics into soap. Polyethylene, one of the most common plastics, is very similar in chemical composition to the main fatty acid in soap and thanks to Steven Mackay it is now possible to change these materials from one to the other.