Koforidua Senior High Technical School Students Advised Against Illicit Drug Use
The Eastern Regional Minister, Seth Kwame Acheampong, has advised students of Koforidua Senior High Technical School to refrain from using narcotic drugs, as it would have a negative impact on their academic performance and future prospects. Mr Acheampong made this known at a seminar organized for the students by the Perfector of Sentiments (POS) Foundation…

The Eastern Regional Minister, Seth Kwame Acheampong, has advised students of Koforidua Senior High Technical School to refrain from using narcotic drugs, as it would have a negative impact on their academic performance and future prospects.
Mr Acheampong made this known at a seminar organized for the students by the Perfector of Sentiments (POS) Foundation and the Open Society Initiative for West Africa (OSIWA) with the theme “Prevention of the use of illicit drugs; the youth, our future”. The event was attended by students and tutors of the school.
According to the Minister, the use of narcotic drugs impairs the judgment of the user, leading to dangerous decision-making that can affect their relationships with others. He also added that drug abuse makes it difficult for students to perform well academically and overcome the problem.
Speaking on reasons why people use drugs, Mr Acheampong listed curiosity, peer pressure, boredom, and the desire to escape from problems or deal with stress and anxiety.
The Acting Deputy Eastern Regional Officer of the Narcotics Control Commission, Millicent Badu, stressed the importance of having a drug-free school environment, as it enhances the image of the school and provides a safe academic environment for teachers and students. She added that stakeholders should protect the future leaders of the country from the harmful effects of drugs.
The Executive Director of the POS Foundation, Jonathan Osei Owusu, advised the students to stay away from alcohol, as it can land them in jail. He emphasized that many people are serving jail terms at Nsawam Medium Security Prisons due to drug and substance abuse.
In conclusion, the Eastern Regional Education Director, Ivy Asantewa Owusu, advised the students to avoid negative peer influence and say no to narcotic drugs or any harmful substances. She urged them not to disappoint their tutors, parents, and guardians, so they can achieve their future aspirations of becoming responsible citizens of the country.
The seminar was well-received by the Assistant Headmaster in charge of Administration of the school, Samuel Batarema, who commended the organizers for the program.