Kotoka Basic School has emerged as a shining example of youth-led anti-drug advocacy after winning the Drug-Free Clubs Art Competition organised by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The competition, held under the theme “Empowering the Youth Through Creative Arts,” sought to harness the creativity of students to raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse and promote healthier lifestyles among young people.
Kotoka Basic School, located at Burma Camp in the Greater Accra Region, topped the contest with 407 points from three judges, earning a trophy, plaque, medals for contestants and a GH¢2,000 cash prize. Fellow Burma Camp-based school, Burma Camp Basic School, secured second place with 356 points and received a plaque, medals and GH¢1,000.
Beyond the competition itself, organisers used the event as a platform to encourage students to become ambassadors against drug abuse in their schools and communities.
Addressing participants, Mr. Solomon Stanley Eyo, Director of Operations at NACOC, warned of the growing threat of substance abuse among school-going children, citing data showing that more than 36 per cent of junior and senior high school students in Ghana have experimented with at least two substances.
He revealed that cigarettes, cannabis and alcohol remain the most abused substances among boys, while pain relievers, shisha and alcohol are more prevalent among girls.
According to him, stress continues to be a major contributing factor, with nearly 89 per cent of students surveyed reporting high stress levels.
Mr. Eyo said the findings underscore the importance of innovative approaches such as art, poetry, drama and debates in educating young people and influencing positive behaviour.
“Creativity provides young people with a powerful voice to communicate important messages and inspire their peers to make better choices,” he said.
As part of the initiative, contestants were provided with professional art materials to support their participation, while Chief Executive Officer of El-Sayus Company Limited, Mr. Archibald Darko-Boateng, donated GH¢1,000 to each contestant in recognition of their efforts and creativity.
NACOC officials said the Drug-Free Clubs programme remains a key strategy in equipping students with life skills and empowering them to champion a drug-free lifestyle within their schools and communities.
The Commission commended participating schools, teachers and club patrons for supporting the initiative, describing the competition as proof that young people can play a leading role in the fight against substance abuse through creativity, education and peer influence.
