Kumasi Anglican Senior High School (SHS) has won the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) Ashanti poetry competition. This event, held on July 24, 2026, aimed to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse among students.
The competition involved nine Senior High Schools from the Ashanti Region. It formed part of post-launch activities for the 2026 World Drug Day celebration. The theme was "Drug Abuse, Causes and Effects," testing students' knowledge of substance abuse.
This initiative fits into Ghana's ongoing efforts to tackle drug abuse, a significant public health and social challenge. NACOC frequently engages with educational institutions to prevent substance misuse among young people. Such programs are crucial for national development, as drug abuse can hinder the productivity of the youth.
PNCO Samuel Yeboah, the Ashanti Regional Commander of NACOC, stressed the need for collective action against drug abuse. He encouraged participants to become ambassadors for the Commission. Mr. Yeboah emphasized educating peers on substance abuse dangers and promoting positive life choices.
The competition's implications are far-reaching, potentially influencing thousands of students. It encourages informed decision-making and discourages substance abuse. Decision-makers will likely monitor the effectiveness of such creative educational approaches in reducing drug prevalence among youth.
Students delivered thought-provoking performances, highlighting various effects of drug abuse. These included physical, psychological, social, and economic consequences. They urged young people to reject illicit drugs and focus on education and personal development.
Contestants were judged on several criteria, including memorization, clarity of speech, and stage presence. Their ability to interpret poems on drug abuse was also a key factor. This comprehensive judging ensured a high standard of performance.
Armed Forces Senior High Technical School secured second place in the competition. Prempeh College took the third position. These schools, along with Kumasi Anglican SHS, demonstrated strong commitment to the cause.
The winning schools received trophies and cash prizes for their outstanding performances. Individual poetry reciters were awarded medals, exercise books, and certificates. These incentives recognize their efforts and encourage continued engagement.
Teachers and invited guests praised NACOC for using poetry as an engaging method. They expressed hope that the messages shared would encourage responsible citizenship. This collaborative approach between schools and NACOC is vital for sustained impact.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from participating schools and NACOC. They pledged to strengthen collaboration on educational programs. These programs aim to prevent drug abuse, promote healthy lifestyles, and encourage responsible citizenship among students.