By Kamal Ahmed/GNA
Odumase-Krobo (E/R), Oct 2, GNA – Community groups and local chiefs in the Krobo region have raised alarms about increasing drug use among students in Senior High Schools, warning that this trend may threaten the younger generation's future if not addressed.
The initiative, started under the guidance of the Konor of Manya Krobo, Nene Sakite II, is being managed by the Tema Community 25 Lions Club in partnership with the Accra Golden Lions Club and the Rotary Club of Akosombo-Dam City.
Other collaborators include the Rotary Club of Tema-Community 25, the Rotaract Club of UESD-Somanya, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), and the Ngmayem Festival Planning Committee.
Named "Say No to Drugs," the campaign has introduced educational programs in schools throughout the Greater Accra and Eastern Regions, such as Asesewa SHS, Akro Secondary Technical, Krobo Girls, Manya Krobo SHS, and Akuse Methodist SHS.
Dr. Ralph Tettey Amlalo, head of the Tema Community 25 Lions Club, called the situation extremely concerning, noting that discussions with students uncovered alarming trends.
He mentioned that students were allegedly concealing substances in common items like drinks, tea, candies, and the well-known hibiscus beverage, 'Sobolo,' while noting that some schools had documented instances of students exchanging drugs, leading teachers to perform entrance inspections.
In some cases, students were reported to be abusing stimulants and caffeine-containing products to remain awake for long study periods, while others were said to be taking non-prescribed painkillers to relieve their menstrual discomfort, typically influenced by friends' recommendations or inaccurate information found on social media.
The substances involved in the abuse reportedly consisted of codeine combinations, cannabis, heroin, and regionally made drugs like "Red" and "Blue Blue."
Dr. Amlalo observed that although these problems were once connected to cities such as Accra and Tema, they have now reached smaller towns and rural areas, highlighting that the social effects of drug abuse can be connected to unsafe sexual practices and adolescent pregnancies.
He stated that students affected by these factors frequently lost control, resulting in impulsive actions or poor decision-making, which played a role in the increasing number of teenage pregnancies.
Mr. Nehemiah Attigah, head of the Accra Golden Lions Club, cited the issue primarily as a result of lack of knowledge and influence from friends.
He mentioned that the majority of students did not know what they were consuming, thinking it would boost their strength or academic results, and emphasized the need for ongoing education to help students make well-informed decisions.
Mr. John Atteh Matey, the head of the Lower Manya Krobo municipality, compared the issue to a medical problem that needs immediate attention, stating that senior high schools have turned into areas where drug use is common due to peer pressure among teenagers.
He promised the Assembly's backing and suggested establishing anti-drug clubs in schools to maintain awareness initiatives.
The Ngmayem Festival Planning Committee also associated the campaign with its upcoming annual events.
Mr. Tawiah Kofi-Opata, a member of the Committee stated that drug use, smoking, and alcohol dependence often increased during festival periods, and urged prompt awareness campaigns to reduce these activities and maintain the festival's cultural value.
The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), a collaborator in the campaign, stated its dedication to offering technical assistance and oversight.
FDA officials stated that nationwide initiatives to address substance abuse were becoming more critical as an increasing number of young people encountered dangerous drugs via social connections, illegal sales, and false information online.
The team behind the campaign highlighted that the project was designed not only to tackle the present situation but also to secure Ghana's long-term prospects.
Concerned parties cautioned that inaction might lead to a generation stuck in addiction, yet they remain optimistic that coordinated efforts from educators, parents, officials, and community organizations could change the situation.
GNA
Edited by D.I. Laary / Christabel Addo
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