The University of Ghana’s Career and Counselling Directorate has announced plans to launch a campus-wide “No Substance Abuse” campaign next semester to curb rising cases of hard drug use among students.
Speaking on Campus Exclusive on Radio Univers, Counselling Psychologist and Placement Coordinator, Edwina Painstil, noted that the initiative will involve the entire university community and take a stronger stance against substance abuse on campus.
”As a directorate, we are going to launch a campaign on no drugs or no substance abuse on campus. It might happen next semester. There’s going to be a lot of campaigning very soon. This campaign would involve the entire university community, and efforts would also be made to take a stronger stance on it.”
She expressed concern over the ease with which students are exposed to illicit substances, particularly at social gatherings.
”When you find yourself at parties and the drinks there are already opened, don’t drink them. They might be infused. Don’t also associate yourself with people who are under the influence of these drugs, thinking you want to belong,” she cautioned.
The counselling psychologist encouraged students struggling with substance abuse to seek help from the directorate, assuring that all cases will be treated confidentially.
”Seeking help doesn’t mean everyone is going to know you’re on drugs. We work with strict confidentiality, so speak to us about it, and we’re always here to help you.”
Madam Painstil also warned that selling or distributing drug-laced food and drinks on campus is a criminal offence and that offenders will be reported to police. She urged students to take personal responsibility for their choices, stressing that peer pressure and curiosity are never worth the physical, mental and social harm caused by drug use.
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Story by Felix Agyapong Opoku|univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Michelle Lartey
