The Eastern Regional Command of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), as part of its activities to commemorate this year’s World Drug Day, organized a debate competition at Oyoko Methodist Senior High School on June 25, 2024.

World Drug Day is a day set aside by the United Nations General Assembly every year on June 26 for member states to raise awareness of the risks and effects of drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking, as well as to consider the most effective countermeasures.

The participating schools were Oyoko Methodist Senior High School (OMESS) and Ofori Panin Senior High School (OPASS).

Each school presented three participants to debate the topic, "Prioritizing Prevention Over Employing Punitive Measures in Drug Policies: Which is More Sustainable?"

Ofori Panin Senior High School argued for prevention, while Oyoko Methodist Senior High School (OMESS) advocated for punitive measures.

At the end of the day, Ofori Panin Senior High School emerged as the winner of the 2024 World Drug Day debate competition.

Additionally, Suhum Islamic Girls SHS Drug Awareness Club members performed a short drama about the dangers associated with substance abuse among students and how to curb it.

SNCO Grace A-B Tawiah, Eastern Regional Commander of the Narcotics Control Commission, commented on the theme for this year’s celebration, "The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention," which highlighted the shared commitment to proactive measures that safeguard communities and empower the youth.

She emphasized the need to invest significantly more in healthcare, education for the general public, law enforcement, and social services. Prevention not only saves lives but also fosters healthier and more resilient communities.

SNCO Tawiah stressed that students and the youth represent the promise of the future, and therefore their choices and actions will shape the world of tomorrow.

She also said that students and the youth should embrace education, seek knowledge, and understand that prevention is not just about saying no to harmful substances but also about saying yes to a life of opportunity and fulfillment.

SNCO Tawiah emphasized the pivotal role of security personnel, who work tirelessly to protect and serve the nation.

Through their vigilance, dedication, and community engagement, they are not just keeping us safe but investing in a safer tomorrow.

The Regional Commander encouraged everyone to reaffirm their collective commitment to prevention.

She further stressed the need to invest in education, support community-based programs, and foster partnerships that promote well-being and deter harm.

"Prevention is not just a strategy; it is a mindset that empowers us to build resilient communities and nurture healthy futures," she said.

She advised the participants and the entire student body to carry forward the message of the day: "Prevention is a shared responsibility and a cornerstone of our efforts to build a better world. By investing in prevention, we invest in hope, resilience, and the well-being of generations to come."

The Regional Commander used the opportunity to thank the various partners who made the debate competition possible: Promasidor Ghana, Linda Dor, Mumuadu Rural Bank, FairAfric, Joy Industries, Pam Pharmaceuticals, SIRCOOL Mineral Water from CSIR, Love Enterprise, and Kanis frozen food.

Among the dignitaries present were Oyokohene and Adontenhene of New Juaben Traditional Area, Nana Osei Bonsu Sempeh II, and his elders; the Eastern Regional Manager of the Pharmacy Council, Rev. Ben Borkor; the Ghana Prisons Service, represented by DSP Francis Dogbe; the Headmaster of Oyoko Methodist SHS, Mr. Seth Odame; and the Representative of the Headmaster of Ofori Panin SHS, Suhum Islamic Girls SHS, as well as various Drug Awareness Club Coordinators.