Students caught with drugs could face dismissal — Education Minister orders firm sanctions

The Minister for Education Haruna Iddrisu has announced a zero-tolerance policy against drug use in schools.

He cautioned that students found with narcotic substances could face severe sanctions, including dismissal.

Speaking at the commemoration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in Accra on Friday, June 26, he noted that the presence of drugs in educational institutions poses a serious threat to the growth and development of students and must be dealt with firmly.

"I have given GES Director-General my firm instructions, authority, and mandate under the law to exact the highest punishment to any student caught with drugs in school, and to punish that person, even if it means dismissal of that student," he said.

Mr. Iddrisu explained that allowing students involved in drug use to remain in schools could negatively influence other learners and undermine efforts to maintain a safe educational environment.

He stressed that the government would not compromise on the fight against drug abuse in schools and urged all stakeholders to support efforts to protect students.

The minister also announced plans to introduce anti-drug messages in schools across the country as part of efforts to educate students on the dangers of substance abuse.

According to him, the Ghana Education Service will be directed to incorporate anti-drug messages into school assemblies.

"From tomorrow, in between the recitation of the National Anthem and the National Pledge, every student is made to say 'Don't start it' and the response would be 'Live in regret'," he stated.

Mr. Iddrisu said the initiative is intended to increase awareness about the harmful effects of drugs and encourage students to stay away from substance abuse.