The Head of Communication at Chosen Rehab, Noah King, has disclosed that drug abuse remains a major national security threat, warning that urgent efforts must be deployed to address the challenge before it escalates further.
Speaking on the sidelines of an anti-drug abuse campaign held at Achimota Senior High School, Mr King revealed that whilst steps are being taken to tackle substance abuse among second-cycle students, an alarming trend is emerging among healthcare professionals.
According to Mr King, the youth—who represent the nation’s future—are being devastated by illicit drugs, with many forced to abandon their education.
Addressing the issue on the severe consequences of addiction, he warned that unchecked drug abuse could ultimately cripple the Ghanaian economy.
However, he was quick to add that the crisis extends far beyond street drugs, noting that Chosen Rehab Center is increasingly treating doctors and nurses for prescription medication addiction.
“There are those who think the abuse of drugs is only limited to the illicit ones. However, it will surprise you to note that we have options, painkillers that some people are abusing, particularly nurses and doctors. They have become addicted to these opioids and are being admitted regularly. So, this is a national security threat and a threat to our national economy.”
To combat this growing crisis, Chosen Rehab Center, with support from the Government of Ghana through the Ministry of Education, has undertaken a nationwide tour of second-cycle institutions to educate students on the dangers of addiction.
Mr King appealed to corporate bodies to partner with the centre, enabling them to expand their crucial outreach to every corner of the country.
Also speaking at the event, the School Chaplain of Achimota School, Rev. Father Dr Agyemang, cautioned that peer pressure and negative influences remain the leading causes of drug addiction among Ghanaian students.
He called for stronger collaboration between teachers, parents, and community leaders to ensure the constant monitoring of children both at home and on campus.
Emphasising that drug abuse has become a common enemy to Ghanaian youth, he stressed that heightened vigilance and collective effort are vital to defeating it.
Following the presentation, several Achimota School students expressed their gratitude to Chosen Rehab Center for delivering such an eye-opening and impactful session.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana