The Ashanti Regional Office of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has expressed concern over the rising abuse of illicit drugs among young people, warning that the trend is fuelling increasing cases of indiscipline in senior high schools across Ghana.
According to the Commission, substance use among some students is undermining discipline in schools, disrupting learning environments, and creating growing challenges for teachers, school authorities and guidance and counselling units.
Ahead of the 2026 World Drug Day commemoration, NACOC organised a seminar in the Ashanti Region for guidance counsellors and teachers, aimed at strengthening their capacity to identify, manage and support students affected by drug use.
Ashanti Regional Commander of NACOC, Samuel Yebua, said the training was necessary in response to increasing reports of drug-related behaviour in schools.
“Counselling is technical. To do it effectively, you need the right skills and knowledge. We receive referrals from schools and parents whose children are suspected of using drugs, and some schools even threaten to dismiss such students,” he said.
He explained that many schools are struggling with how to handle such cases due to limited expertise in substance abuse management.
“Our goal is to equip guidance and counselling teachers with the necessary knowledge so they can address drug-related issues at the school level before they escalate,” Mr Yebua added.
He further linked some incidents of student indiscipline to drug use, noting that some students turn to substances in an attempt to gain confidence to challenge authority.
“One reason some students use drugs is to rebel against authority. They believe the substances give them the confidence to confront teachers and school authorities in ways they ordinarily would not,” he explained.
Participants at the seminar also raised concerns about the growing influence of social media platforms, particularly TikTok, in exposing young people to content that normalises drug use.
They called for stronger support systems and increased resources for schools to effectively address substance abuse and related disciplinary challenges.
The seminar forms part of NACOC’s broader public education campaign ahead of World Drug Day, aimed at raising awareness among young people on the dangers of drug abuse and promoting prevention-focused interventions.