Spreading drug abuse could rob Ghana of future leaders – NPC

The National Peace Council has cautioned that the spread of drug and substance abuse among Ghanaian youth could jeopardize the nation's ability to produce responsible future leaders, potentially undermining the country's development. Eastern Regional Chairman Prof. Mark Boadu emphasized the urgent need for action to prevent drug abuse and encourage students to focus on education, sports, and other activities that could enhance their futures.

Boadu questioned what the nation would leave for its future leaders if drug abuse persisted, highlighting the importance of empowering young minds to build a culture of peace. The Eastern Regional Inter-School Peace and Substance Abuse Quiz Competition, part of the 2026 International Peace Day celebrations, served as a platform to educate over 64 senior high schools across the Eastern Region about the dangers of drug use, substance abuse, peacebuilding, and conflict prevention.

The "Save Peace" project used quizzes and school-level activities to engage students and promote a peaceful school environment conducive to effective learning. Prof. Boadu commended the students for their preparation and knowledge of issues affecting peace and safety on school campuses, noting that even lower-ranked schools achieved high scores.

He urged parents, teachers, communities, and public institutions to support young people in making sound decisions and developing good character, emphasizing that there is no benefit to moving away from drugs. Boadu stressed that Ghana's youth must be prepared to contribute positively to national development.