20. Governments are under an obligation to make public education accessible to all young persons. 21. Education systems should, in addition to their academic and vocational training activities, devote particular attention to the following: (a) Teaching of basic values and developing respect for the child's own cultural identity and patterns, for the social values of the country in which the child is living, for civilizations different from the child's own and for human rights and fundamental freedoms; (b) Promotion and development of the personality, talents and mental and physical abilities of young people to their fullest potential; (c) Involvement of young persons as active and effective participants in, rather than mere objects of, the educational process; (d) Undertaking activities that foster a sense of identity with and of belonging to the school and the community; (e) Encouragement of young persons to understand and respect diverse views and opinions, as well as cultural and other differences; (f) Provision of information and guidance regarding vocational training, employment opportunities and career development; (g) Provision of positive emotional support to young persons and the avoidance of psychological maltreatment; (h) Avoidance of harsh disciplinary measures, particularly corporal punishment. 22. Educational systems should seek to work together with parents, community organizations and agencies concerned with the activities of young persons. 23. Young persons and their families should be informed about the law and their rights and responsibilities under the law, as well as the universal value system, including United Nations instruments. 24. Educational systems should extend particular care and attention to young persons who are at social risk. Specialized prevention programmes and educational materials, curricula, approaches and tools should be developed and fully utilized. 25. Special attention should be given to comprehensive policies and strategies for the prevention of alcohol, drug and other substance abuse by young persons. Teachers and other professionals should be equipped and trained to prevent and deal with these problems. Information on the use and abuse of drugs, including alcohol, should be made available to the student body. 26. Schools should serve as resource and referral centres for the provision of medical, counselling and other services to young persons, particularly those with special needs and suffering from abuse, neglect, victimization and exploitation.