UEW SPED Students Promote Drug Abuse Awareness at Winnesec
Level 400 Special Education students at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) have educated students at the Winneba Secondary School (Winnesec) about the dangers of substance abuse in a sensitisation programme focused on informed decisions and healthy lifestyle choices.
The awareness programme, organised by the Faculty of Applied Behavioural Sciences in Education (FABSE) through the Department of Special Education's (SPED) Unit of Community-Based Rehabilitation and Disability Studies Level 400 Awareness Creation Group, was held under the theme "Say No Before It Steals Your Future."
Addressing the students, Mrs. Dorcas Apianing, a Public Health Officer, urged them to refrain from stigmatising people battling substance abuse and instead encourage them to seek professional assistance. She explained that signs such as drowsiness or dilated pupils could also result from prescribed medication or underlying medical conditions. She warned against making premature judgements.
Mrs. Dorcas Apianing outlined the harmful effects of substance abuse including addiction, impaired judgement, hallucinations, respiratory complications and heart-related illnesses. She identified peer pressure, curiosity, stress and social media influence as some of the major factors contributing to drug abuse among young people.
She encouraged students to resist negative influences by engaging in recreational activities, developing practical skills, maintaining open communication with parents and guardians and seeking counselling whenever they face emotional or psychological challenges.
Mrs. Dorcas Apianing underscored the need for families, schools, healthcare professionals and communities to work together to prevent substance abuse. She stressed that sustained education and timely support are critical to protecting the future of young people.
