By Michael Kofi Kenetey
The Manya Krobo Traditional Council in collaboration with the Tema Community 25 Lions Club, Rotary Clubs, Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), among other civic organizations has intensified the fight against drug abuse across second cycle schools in the Krobo enclave to help curb the growing menace of drug abuse among students.
The initiative, launched under the auspices of Konor of Manya Krobo Traditional Area, Nene Sakite was aimed to sensitize the youth on the dangers of drug addiction and substance abuse.
Other participating organizations in the campaign include the Rotaract Club of the University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD)-Somanya, Accra Golden Lions Club, Rotary Club of Akosombo Dam City, Rotary Club of Tema Community 25, and the Achievers Network.
The team visited several senior high schools, including Asesewa SHS, Akro Sec Tech, Krobo Girls SHS, Manya Krobo SHS, and Akuse Methodist SHTS, to educate students about the dangers of consuming drugs such as tramadol, codeine, marijuana, heroin, alcohol, and tobacco.
Speaking to the media, Principal Regulatory Officer of the FDA, Mr. David Arhin, said the initiative is to help raise awareness among students to desist from substance abuse, which can destroy their future. He expressed concern about the rising cases of drug use among young people, emphasizing that the campaign was crucial in changing perceptions and saving lives.
“We realized that the issue of drug abuse among youngsters is becoming serious. From the questions the students asked, it’s clear that many have encountered these substances directly or through peers. This shows why campaigns like this are vital to building a drug-free society,” he said.
Mr. Arhin explained that substance abuse can lead to severe health complications and shortened lifespans. He cautioned against the use of tramadol, alcohol, and tobacco, noting that they contain harmful chemicals that can cause addiction and diseases such as cancer.
He further appealed to the Ghana Education Service (GES) and school authorities to intensify guidance and counseling sessions to help identify and support students struggling with substance use.
The Immediate Past District 418 Governor of Lions Club International, Lion Dr. Helena Asamoah-Hassan PMJF, expressed deep concern over the increasing rate of drug abuse among the youth. She said the students’ responses during the engagement indicated that many were already familiar with drug-related activities, either through personal experience or peer influence.
“If our future leaders are on this perilous path, then the nation is in danger. This campaign is timely and must continue to help redirect our young people before it’s too late,” she stated.
She lamented the erosion of parental authority and traditional discipline, attributing the situation to the adoption of foreign practices that conflict with Ghanaian cultural values. She argued that leniency in enforcing discipline at home and in schools has contributed to moral decay among the youth.
“The rules are there, but those who must enforce them are guilty themselves. In the past, parents and teachers had firm control, but today, many are restricted. Children no longer fear authority, and that’s part of the problem,” she added.
The President of the Tema Community 25 Lions Club, Lion Dr. Ralph Tettey-Amlalo MJF, who led the campaign, said the initiative seeks to curtail drug abuse and related social issues, including teenage pregnancies and violence. He observed that some students resort to consuming hibiscus beverages like “sobolo” mixed with drugs due to its attractive colour, which makes detection difficult.
“Some of these substances influence behaviour and judgment, leading to acts like rape and unwanted pregnancies. We want to ensure that students understand these risks,” Dr. Tettey-Amlalo explained.
A member of the Manya Krobo Ngmayem Festival Planning Committee, Mr. Tawiah Kofi – Opata said the campaign is part of activities in preparation for the upcoming festival, during which youth indulgence in alcohol and drugs becomes rampant. He emphasized the need for early education to prevent such incidents during celebrations.
At Akuse Methodist Senior High Technical School, the Headmaster, Mr. John Selby, described sensitization as an eye-opener for both students and staff. He pledged the school’s continued collaboration with the groups to sustain the campaign.
“Sometimes, when students are caught using drugs and we invite their parents, they are shocked because they never knew what their children were doing. Parents must be closer to their wards despite economic challenges,” he advised.
Mr. Selby called on all stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and traditional authorities, to unite in combating drug-related behaviour among the youth.
“If we all work together, we can protect our children and secure the future of our nation,” he said.
