The Volta Regional Command of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) trained Guidance and Counselling Coordinators from Senior High, Technical, and Vocational schools. This initiative provided essential capacity-building, directly addressing drug abuse among students. The training marked part of the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The one-day seminar aimed to strengthen the counsellors' ability to identify and address drug abuse. It promoted preventive education and enhanced teamwork among NACOC, the Ghana Education Service (GES), and other groups. This effort reflects a growing concern over substance abuse impacting Ghana's youth.
Ghana faces a significant challenge with rising drug abuse, particularly among young people. This trend can hinder economic productivity and strain public health resources. Data from various reports consistently points to an increase in youth involvement with harmful substances. Such issues often lead to poorer educational outcomes and reduced workforce participation, affecting the nation's long-term development goals. Previous government initiatives and civil society efforts have also focused on intervention and prevention, underscoring the severity of the problem.
SNCO Worlanyo K. Fianu, the Volta Regional Commander of NACOC, expressed concern. He described the growing rate of substance abuse among young people as a major challenge needing a unified response. Mr. Fianu stressed the vital role school counsellors play in early detection and timely help. He noted that schools offer one of the most effective ways to prevent substance abuse among youth. Mrs. Marian Jemima Akua Adzroe, the Volta Regional Director of Education, commended NACOC's proactive steps. She urged participants to use their new skills to strengthen school counselling services.
This training program signifies NACOC's commitment to preventive education and community awareness. It will likely lead to improved early intervention strategies in schools. Decision-makers and parents will watch for any measurable decrease in student drug abuse rates. Effective implementation of these new skills by counsellors could mitigate the long-term societal costs associated with drug addiction. This includes costs related to healthcare, law enforcement, and lost economic potential. Continued collaboration between NACOC, GES, and other stakeholders remains crucial for sustained success.