The Director-General of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Brigadier General Obuba Mantey, has urged stronger collaboration with the Ministry of Education to combat the growing menace of substance abuse among students in schools nationwide.
Brig Gen Mantey, accompanied by NACOC’s Deputy Director-General in charge of Enforcement, Control and Elimination, Lawyer Twum-Barimah, paid a courtesy call on the Minister for Education, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, last Friday, June 19, 2026. The meeting centered on urgent measures to address the increasing rate of drug and substance abuse among young people, particularly in second-cycle institutions.
The NACOC boss briefed the minister on ongoing interventions, including intensified educational campaigns in senior high schools to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and its long-term impact on health, academic performance, and future aspirations. He highlighted the establishment of Drug-Free Clubs in schools, designed to equip students with resilience skills and empower them to resist peer pressure.
“The goal is not only to educate students on the dangers of drug abuse but also to build their confidence and capacity to resist negative influences,” Brig Gen Mantey stated.
Hon. Haruna Iddrisu commended NACOC’s leadership for its continued efforts in combating drug trafficking and abuse. He emphasized that education remains a critical tool in the fight against substance abuse and called for intensified awareness campaigns in schools.
The minister expressed concern over the rising prevalence of substance abuse among young people, especially within the 20–29 age group, describing the trend as a serious threat to Ghana’s future workforce and leadership. He stressed the need for coordinated efforts involving schools, parents, policymakers, and law enforcement agencies.
“As a nation, we must act decisively to protect our youth. Substance abuse among young people threatens not only their future but also the development of the country,” Hon. Iddrisu stated.
Brig Gen Mantey further revealed plans by NACOC to organize a nationwide seminar for career and guidance coordinators and teachers. The seminar will provide a platform for education stakeholders to discuss strategies for engaging students and preventing substance abuse, while enhancing teachers’ capacity to identify early warning signs and provide timely interventions.
The meeting underscored the urgent need for sustained collaboration between NACOC and the Ministry of Education as both institutions intensify efforts to create safer, healthier, and drug-free learning environments for students across the country.
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