Students from three high schools in the Kusaug Traditional Area of the Upper East region have taken a bold stance against drug abuse, vowing to support and empower each other to make informed choices about their lives. The students, from Bawku SHS/Tech, Binduri SHS, and Kusanaba SHS, participated in a career guidance seminar organized by Sung Bie’la Foundation Ghana, which featured powerful testimonies from former drug addicts.
Abaa Roger Atambire, a former addict and founder of Load Foundation, shared his story, urging students not to be swayed by their peers into following the same harmful path he took. “I didn’t realize certain things early in life and I fell into a trap,” he said. He emphasized that if drugs were beneficial, the United Nations would not have designated a day to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse.
The students were inspired by Abaa’s story and have pledged to take control of their lives, using their self-determination and inner strength to resist the temptation of drug abuse. “Our life and our future are in our hands – not the hands of our peers,” said Akolbilla Pamela, a student at Kusanaba SHS.
Hajia Zenabu Awinbe Salifu, founder of Sung Bie’la Foundation Ghana, also shared her inspiring story of overcoming humble beginnings with the students. She encouraged them to be determined, seek guidance when needed, and stay focused on their goals to achieve success in life.
The seminar has had a profound impact on the students, awakening them to the harsh realities of drug abuse. Teachers at Binduri SHS are advocating for more career guidance programs, which they believe can positively impact society. Educational resources were distributed to the students, providing them with the tools they need to succeed.
With newfound resolve, the students are committed to making positive choices that will shape their futures and ensure a drug-free life.
