By Michael Foli Jackidy
Ho (V/R), June 25, GNA – Professor Evelyn Korkor Ansah, the Board Chair of the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), Basic School (UBS), has advised learners to stay away from drugs and make responsible choices that would safeguard their future aspirations.
Speaking at the 3rd UBS World Drug Day Celebration held at the UHAS in Ho, under the global theme, “World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,” she said the gathering was aimed at protecting the future of young people through education and awareness.
She noted that although drugs might appear harmless or attractive to young people, their consequences were often devastating.
“We are gathered here because we want to protect your future. Drugs may look small and harmless, and sometimes they may even appear exciting, but they can destroy your future and the dreams you have for yourselves,” she said.
Prof. Ansah explained that many learners aspired to become doctors, pharmacists, police officers, teachers, professors and leaders, but drug abuse could derail those ambitions by damaging their health, affecting their judgment and limiting their opportunities.
She urged the learners to remember three important lessons from the programme, saying their bodies were precious and should be protected.
“Your body is special. It belongs to God, and it should not be destroyed by drugs. Keep it safe and healthy,” she advised.
She also stressed the importance of making wise choices, particularly in selecting friends and deciding how to spend their time.
“The choices you make today are the building blocks of your future. The friends you keep and the decisions you make can either lead you towards success or take you down the wrong path,” she said.
Prof. Ansah told the learners that successful people achieve their goals through discipline and responsible decision-making, adding that she would not have attained her position as a professor if she had engaged in harmful behaviours during her youth.
She reminded the students that they were not alone and should seek help whenever they felt pressured to engage in drug use.
“You have the right to say no. If anyone tries to introduce you to drugs, walk away, report the person and seek help from a trusted adult. Do not allow anyone to draw you into something that could destroy your future,” she said.
She cautioned learners against experimenting with drugs out of curiosity, warning that even a single attempt could have life-altering consequences.
Prof. Ansah said every child deserved a bright future and called on students to reject drugs and embrace positive values.
“Beyond becoming future leaders of this country, each one of you deserves a bright and successful future. Let us all come together to say no to drugs and yes to a life of purpose, excellence and achievement,” she said.
GNA
Edited by: Maxwell Awumah/ Christabel Addo