UVic Offers Campus Drug Testing Pilot

The University of Victoria is set to introduce a pilot drug checking service on its campus to combat student overdoses, with operations possibly beginning as early as October. This proactive measure, which includes pop-up testing events and an anonymous sample drop box, is a direct response to a tragic incident.

This initiative follows the January 2026 death of 18-year-old student Sidney McIntyre Starko, who ingested fentanyl-tainted cocaine in a campus dorm. A coroner's inquest recommended enhanced drug testing access for students. The UVic Students' Society views this as a necessary step but hopes it expands to a permanent fixture.

The pilot project, operated by UVic researchers from the Substance team, received an exemption under the federal Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, legally permitting the service. Initial plans focus on high-impact dates like Halloween and St. Patrick's Day, with flexibility to offer random testing throughout the year. A 24/7 drop box will also be available.

Despite the university's efforts, some physicians, like those from Doctors for Safer Drug Policy, argue that a pop-up model is insufficient and stigmatizing. They advocate for a permanent, brick-and-mortar service with regular hours to address the seriousness of the issue. The university plans to track usage and student needs over the one to two-year trial period to inform future decisions.