Sissala East NCCE Collaborates with Health Directorate to Educate Students on Drug Abuse

The Sissala East Municipal Office of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), in collaboration with the Mental Health Unit of the Sissala East Health Directorate, has organised a sensitisation programme on drug and substance abuse for pupils of St. Gabriel Basic School.

The programme was organised following concerns by school authorities over the increasing incidence of drug and substance abuse among young people in the municipality. It sought to educate pupils on the dangers associated with substance abuse and encourage them to make informed and responsible choices.

Speaking during the engagement, the Mental Health Officer of the Sissala East Health Directorate, Mr Sulemana Dawda, explained the concept of drug and substance abuse, the factors that contribute to the practice, and its harmful effects on the health, education, and future prospects of young people.

Mr Dawda identified some of the commonly abused substances in the municipality, based on reported cases and monitoring by the Health Directorate, as energy drinks such as Jojo drink, alcoholic beverages such as akpeteshie and other local drugs such as marijuana, tramadol, snuff, local herbal mixtures commonly referred to as "atayyi", and the misuse of medications such as paracetamol.

He cautioned the pupils against experimenting with drugs and other harmful substances, stressing that substance abuse can lead to addiction, poor academic performance, health complications, and risky behaviours. He further encouraged them to seek guidance from parents, teachers, and health professionals whenever they faced challenges or health concerns.

Mr Dawda also advised the pupils to report any illness to their parents or teachers and seek medical attention at recognised health facilities instead of resorting to self-medication or unapproved substances.

The sensitisation forms part of ongoing efforts by the NCCE and its partners to promote healthy lifestyles among young people and empower them with the knowledge needed to resist negative influences and contribute positively to society.