Gov’t Launches Nationwide Anti-Drug Campaign in Schools with Daily Assembly Message

The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Ministry of the Interior and the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), has launched a nationwide Behavioural Change Communication (BCC) Campaign to combat the growing menace of drug abuse in Ghanaian schools.

The initiative, described by the government as an innovative and proactive response, is aimed at protecting learners from the harmful effects of substance abuse and promoting safe, healthy and disciplined learning environments across the country.

As part of the campaign, the Minister for Education, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, has directed the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES) to introduce a daily anti-drug awareness message in all pre-tertiary schools with immediate effect.

Students are to recite the approved message during morning assemblies, immediately after the National Anthem and before the National Pledge.

The campaign message reads:
Leader: “Don’t start it as a greeting.”
Students: “To live in regret.”

According to the Ministry, the directive forms a key component of a broader national Behavioural Change Communication Strategy.

The strategy is designed to discourage drug use among school-aged children, strengthen preventive education, and encourage responsible decision-making among learners.

To reinforce the campaign, the Ministry said it will roll out sustained public education efforts, school-based sensitisation programmes, and stakeholder engagement activities. It will also enhance collaboration among educational institutions, parents, community leaders and other key partners.

“The Ministry of Education remains committed to safeguarding the wellbeing and future of every learner and calls on all stakeholders to support this national effort to eliminate drug abuse from Ghana’s schools and educational institutions,” the statement added.

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