Education
On 25th May, 2023, the Akwa Ibom State Drug Control Committee recently conducted an advocacy meeting and sensitization program for school principals in Uyo Federal Constituency, as part of their ongoing efforts to combat drug abuse among students. The committee aims to establish “War Against Drug Abuse” clubs in schools to educate students about the dangers of substance abuse.
Dr. Martha Emmanuel, the Chairman of the committee and Wife of the State Governor, who was. represented by the secretary of the committee Esther Ukpe revealed the committee’s plan to train teachers who will oversee these clubs in various schools. She emphasized the need for schools to provide the necessary support to ensure the success of these initiatives.
Expressing concern over the alarming increase in drug abuse in schools and society, Dr. Emmanuel urged school principals to create a conducive environment where students and staff can actively work towards maintaining a drug-free setting.
The advocacy meeting with principals served to sensitize them about the growing scourge of drug abuse and its consequences. Dr. Emmanuel also announced the committee’s intention to establish rehabilitation centers in Ikot Ekpene and Eket senatorial districts to provide assistance to those affected by substance abuse.
During the event, Mrs. Obot Bassey, the State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), delivered a presentation on drug abuse and its impact in educational environments. She highlighted the alarming global rates of illicit substance consumption and trafficking, with youths and students being particularly vulnerable. Mrs. Bassey discussed the various stages of drug abuse, emphasizing the importance of implementing drug abuse monitoring policies and establishing “War Against Drug Abuse” (WADA) clubs in schools as preventive measures.
The event also featured a presentation on substance use policy in schools by Mr. Nsidibe Francis, the Programme Manager of the Centre for Research and Information on Substance Abuse. He highlighted the influence of parental monitoring on students’ engagement in drug abuse and emphasized the need for teamwork to develop comprehensive substance use policies in schools.
The Akwa Ibom State Drug Control Committee’s initiative to engage school principals and establish awareness clubs underscores their commitment to addressing the issue of drug abuse among students and fostering a drug-free educational environment.
