NCCE AND GHS INTENSIFY SENSITIZATION ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE IN SISSALA EAST MUNICIPALITY

The Sissala East Municipal Office of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), in collaboration with the Mental Health Unit of the Ghana Health Service, has intensified public education on substance and drug abuse across the municipality.

The joint sensitisation campaign has reached nine communities and Kanton Senior High School, with plans to extend the exercise to other educational institutions.

The initiative seeks to increase public awareness of the legal and health implications of substance abuse and discourage young people and other community members from engaging in illicit drug-related activities.

Addressing participants, the NCCE Municipal Director, Mr. Hussein Elyasu, highlighted the legal consequences associated with the possession, trafficking, and distribution of illicit drugs. He urged residents, particularly young people, to avoid activities involving illegal substances and uphold their civic responsibilities by respecting the laws of Ghana.

The Municipal Mental Health Officer, Mr. Dawud Suleiman, together with his assistant, Mr. Baah Konkoi, educated participants on the harmful effects of substance abuse on physical and mental health.

They highlighted the risks associated with drug misuse and the importance of making informed decisions to safeguard personal health and well-being.

Mr. Anzunna Cajetan, a Civic Education Officer, also supported the sensitisation activities.

The beneficiary communities included Bassisan, Banu, Kunchorgu, Pina, Navariwie, Dimajan No. 1, Dimajan No. 2, Wallembelle and Wahabu.

The collaboration between the NCCE and the Ghana Health Service underscores the importance of integrating civic education with public health awareness to address substance abuse at the community level.

The Municipal Directorate intends to extend the campaign to additional schools to reinforce messages on drug prevention, responsible behaviour, and healthy living.