By Michael Foli Jackidy
Ho (V/R), Aug. 1, GNA – The University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) has commissioned a new batch of Youth Anti-Drug Advocates to spearhead campaigns against substance abuse among young people and support the rehabilitation of victims.
The commissioning ceremony was held during the maiden Thanksgiving, Graduation and Awards Day of the UHAS Basic School and brought together Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) graduates of the school and graduates from nine other basic schools in the Ho Municipality.
Professor Frank Edwin, Pro Vice-Chancellor of UHAS, who administered the commissioning, charged the advocates to carry out their responsibilities with dedication and compassion.
He explained that the advocates had a dual responsibility of educating their peers on the dangers of illicit drug use and discouraging substance abuse among young people while supporting those already affected by addiction.
Prof. Edwin urged the advocates not to stigmatise or neglect persons battling drug dependence but rather encourage and guide them towards rehabilitation and responsible living.
Drawing inspiration from the Holy Bible, he said compassion and restoration were essential in helping individuals overcome life’s challenges, emphasizing that society had a collective responsibility to support people struggling with drug abuse to regain productive lives.
Assistant Narcotics Control Officer (ANCO) Millicent Abena Marfo of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) said the training formed part of activities marking the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
She said UHAS partnered with the Commission to organise a two-day intensive seminar for the students on the dangers and consequences of drug and substance abuse.
“We were privileged to partner with UHAS to train these wonderful students as anti-drug advocates. During the seminar, they were equipped with knowledge on the harmful effects of drug abuse and the importance of making informed and responsible choices,” she said.
Quoting Proverbs 22:6, which states, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it,” ANCO Marfo expressed confidence that the knowledge and values imparted to the students would remain with them throughout their lives.
She encouraged the newly commissioned advocates to be positive role models in their respective Senior High Schools and communities by educating their peers on the dangers of drug abuse and promoting healthy lifestyles.
The Youth Anti-Drug Advocates received certificates jointly endorsed by UHAS and the Narcotics Control Commission and pledged to use the knowledge acquired to champion the fight against drug and substance abuse wherever they find themselves.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Lydia Kukua Asamoah