By Edward Dankwah
Accra, June 27, GNA – Mr. Haruna Iddrisu, the Minister for Education, has directed that a standardized anti-drug chant be introduced nationwide between the recitation of the National Anthem and the National Pledge in all educational institutions, aimed at strengthening Ghana’s fight against drug abuse in schools,
He instructed the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES) to roll out the directive from tomorrow, as part of a coordinated education-sector response to the growing drug menace among young people.
Mr, Iddrisu said the initiative would require students to collectively recite the phrase: “Don’t start it – to live and regret,” creating a daily moral reminder embedded in school assemblies nationwide.
The Minister for Education was speaking at the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (World Drug Day) 2026, on the theme, “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses, in Accra.”
He said drug abuse thrived at the heart of learning, warning that students affected by substances were unable to concentrate, suffer poor attendance, and ultimately risk undermining their future and that of the country.
“The youth represent the future, the wealth and the health of our country,” he said, stressing that Ghana could not afford to lose its human capital to substance abuse and illicit trafficking.
The Minister commended the leadership of NACOC, and the Ministry of the Interior, for their efforts in intensifying the national anti-drug campaign.
He also issued a strong warning to students, describing drugs as “a trap” rather than a symbol of confidence, maturity, or success.
“Drug abuse is not a shortcut to happiness. It is a pathway to regret, broken dreams, and lost opportunities,” he added.
The Minister for Education instructed the GES to enforce zero tolerance for drug-related offences in schools, indicating that students found engaging in drug use or possession would face the highest disciplinary sanctions, including possible dismissal.
He justified the decision by noting that leniency risked endangering other students, warning that tolerance of offenders could “poison the minds of the entire school community.”
Mr. Iddrisu cited increasing reports of substance use in some senior high schools, describing the trend as deeply troubling and a threat to national development.
He said Ghana’s development agenda, including skills training, technical education, and the emerging 24-hour economy initiative, could not succeed if young people were weakened by addiction or drawn into illicit networks.
The Minister for Education called for a whole-of-society response involving parents, teachers, religious leaders, and community stakeholders, urging collective responsibility in protecting the country’s youth from drug abuse and its consequences.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade