NACOC sensitises students on dangers of drug abuse in New Juaben South

The Drug Free Unit of the Eastern Regional Command (ERC) of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has organised a series of drug sensitisation programmes for students and staff of selected schools in the New Juaben South Municipality of Koforidua.

The three-day programme, held from September 23 to 25, 2026, was organised to educate students on the dangers associated with narcotic substance abuse, emerging trends in drug use and ways to resist negative peer influence.

The beneficiary schools were Gatheco Basic School, Nana Kwaku Boateng Basic C School and Wesley Methodist Basic A School.

As part of the programme, students were also introduced to peer education and encouraged to serve as advocates for drug-free communities among their peers.

Facilitators highlighted the misuse of commonly available legal and prescription substances, including painkillers such as paracetamol, Panadol, pethidine and tramadol, as well as cough mixtures, alcohol and energy drinks.

They explained that although some of these substances are legally available, their misuse or excessive consumption can have serious health consequences.

The sessions also focused on illegal drugs, including marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, ecstasy and opioids such as heroin and substances commonly referred to as RED.

Participants were further educated on various drug derivatives and mixtures reportedly gaining popularity among young people, including crack cocaine, tire, weed toffee, wee solobo, strawberry and weed bitters.

The facilitators cautioned students against experimenting with drugs or allowing peer pressure to influence their choices, stressing that substance abuse could negatively affect their health, education and future prospects.

The students were therefore encouraged to remain focused on their studies, make responsible choices and promote a drug-free environment within their schools and communities.