Accra: The Deputy Director of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Alexander Twum-Barima, has raised concerns over the growing involvement of students in the sale and distribution of illicit drugs on tertiary institution campuses across Ghana. Speaking on Joy FM's Super Morning Show, Twum-Barima highlighted recent findings that indicate a worrying rise in drug-related activities within universities, nursing training colleges, teacher training colleges, and other tertiary institutions.
According to Ghana Web, the nationwide survey conducted by the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment has unveiled an alarming trend where students are not only consuming drugs but are also actively participating in their distribution. Twum-Barima noted that investigations have revealed students are increasingly assuming roles as vendors or facilitators in these illegal activities, a shift from the assumption that outsiders are primarily responsible.
Twum-Barima emphasized the seriousness of this trend, pointing out the significant risks it poses to student welfare, academic performance, and campus security. He urged for stronger collaboration among government agencies, educational authorities, parents, and other stakeholders to tackle this challenge through coordinated interventions.
He also stressed the need for a balance between enforcement efforts and rehabilitation programs. The NACOC official advocated for supporting young people struggling with drug dependency to recover and reintegrate into society instead of treating them solely as offenders.