The Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic in Aba has taken a significant step to curb the growing menace of drug abuse among its students. The institution's rector, Dr Christopher Kalu Okoro, has strengthened its collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to tackle the issue.
The partnership aims to educate students on the dangers of drug abuse, which the rector describes as a major threat to societal development. Okoro notes that drug abuse not only affects mental health but also contributes to poverty, making it a pressing concern for the nation.
As part of the preventive strategy, the institution plans to train students on the risks associated with drug abuse. The training sessions are scheduled to take place between May and June, with another round scheduled for November. The rector has also pledged institutional support for the programme, including provision of transportation for training activities.
The NDLEA state coordinator, Chigbu Odomelam Chilee, has raised concern over the rising incidence of substance abuse in the state, particularly among young people. He warns that unchecked drug use could undermine both academic performance and institutional development, stressing the need for proactive measures to address the problem.
The partnership between the Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic and the NDLEA is a welcome development that could help promote a safer and more disciplined academic environment.
The partnership between Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic and the NDLEA is a step in the right direction. By acknowledging the severity of the issue and taking proactive measures, the institution is sending a strong message to its students that drug abuse will not be tolerated. The training sessions and sensitization programmes are crucial in educating students about the risks associated with drug abuse. This initiative will not only benefit the students but also contribute to the overall development of the institution. The NDLEA's efforts to introduce drug education programmes and peer sensitization initiatives are also commendable. However, the question remains: will this partnership be enough to curb the rising incidence of substance abuse in the state?
