Ghana Under Tertiary awards organizes seminar for Senior High Schools

Ghana Under Tertiary awards has begun a series of workshops to admonish students of Senior High Schools to stay away from harmful drugs that could affect their future.

The workshops which form part of the activities of the maiden edition of an award scheme to recognize and reward deserving pre-tertiary students began at the Presbyterian Boys Senior High school, Legon.

The main speaker of the event, Dr Sylvester Amoako; Senior House Officer, Department of Psychiatry at the Korlebu Teaching Hospital entreated the students to desist from the use of drugs like cocaine, marijuana, tramadol and alcohol. He said these drugs have long-term negative effects on the user.

“As you enter senior high school, you are likely to come into contact with drugs, either through peers or at parties at home. It's important that you understand the risks associated with drug abuse. Drug abuse can lead to addiction, health problems, financial hardship, and legal trouble. It can also cause strained relationships with family and friends.

"Drugs can have a negative impact on your physical and mental health. Drug use can lead to an increased risk of addiction, liver damage, heart disease, and stroke. It can also lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Drug use can also cause financial hardship. Drug users may find themselves spending more money on drugs than they can afford, leading to financial problems.

"Finally, drug use can lead to legal trouble. Drug use is illegal in Ghana, and those caught using drugs can face fines, jail time, or other penalties. In short, drug abuse can lead to serious health, financial, and legal problems. It's important that you understand the risks and make responsible choices when it comes to drugs," he stated.

He used the occasion to encourage those who were already addicted to drugs to seek early treatment since drug addiction can be reversed through different types of rehabilitative procedures.

The CEO Pierian Spring, Mr Michael Chris Tetteh organizers of Ghana Under Tertiary awards also used the occasion to encourage the students to prioritize their education above any other thing including the short pleasures of life. He revealed that in as much as education is a right to every individual, to some, it’s a privilege to be in school.

“Education is something that everyone has the right to, regardless of their socio-economic background. It provides a platform for success and a chance to reach your goals. It’s the only thing that provides an equal chance of a future to the son of a poor man and the son of a rich man.

"However, sometimes education can be a privilege. If you have the opportunity to be in school, do not let impediments such as drugs truncate the privilege you have. Drugs can have a detrimental effect on your future and your life,” he stated.

Miss Hilda Rosenthal, the MC of the event encouraged the students to live an exemplary life to be able to receive recognition from awards schemes such as Ghana Under Tertiary Awards.

-Ghana Chamber of Content Producers