The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has announced plans to roll out an intensive anti-drug abuse campaign across educational institutions nationwide beginning June 26, in commemoration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts by the Commission to combat drug abuse among young people and strengthen the fight against illicit drug trafficking in the country.
Speaking on the programme, the Deputy Director-General of NACOC, Alexander Twum-Barimah, said the campaign will focus largely on schools, particularly tertiary institutions, to educate students on the dangers associated with drug abuse.
According to him, education remains the Commission’s primary strategy in addressing the growing menace.
“The first plan is education, and that is why even this year, when we intended to celebrate World Drug Day, which is coming tomorrow, we are trying to partner with UPSA, which is also another youthful educational centre to let students or our younger brothers and sisters understand the dangers that come with drug usage, especially the abuse part and how it is going to affect their education, so education is number one,” he said.
Mr Twum-Barimah noted that beyond education, NACOC is also focusing on rehabilitation and support for individuals already struggling with substance abuse.
“The second part is those who are into it. Can we assist them to come out? The answer is yes. So we are also engaging them in counselling and other rehab exercises,” he added.
He called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders, including educational authorities, civil society organisations, parents and community leaders, to ensure the success of the campaign.
Mr Twum-Barimah stressed that sustained collective action is crucial to reducing drug abuse, strengthening prevention efforts and promoting rehabilitation among affected individuals.
The campaign is expected to form part of NACOC’s broader efforts to create awareness and discourage illicit drug use among the youth while promoting healthy and productive lifestyles.
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