The Savannah Regional Command of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has organized an inter-school debate competition as part of activities marking the 2026 World Drug Day celebration under the theme, “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses.”
The event, held at the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) Conference Hall in Damongo on Monday, June 22, 2026, brought together students from selected basic and senior high schools across the Savannah Region to engage in thought-provoking discussions on drug abuse and its impact on society.
At the basic school level, Girls Model Junior High School and New Life Preparatory School competed in a debate on the topic: “Drug abuse among young people is primarily caused by peer pressure.” Contestants were tasked to argue both for and against the motion.
After an impressive display of critical thinking and public speaking skills, Girls Model JHS emerged victorious with 82 points, narrowly defeating New Life Preparatory School, which scored 79 points.
In the senior high school category, St. Anne’s Girls Senior High School and Damongo Senior High School debated the motion: “The rising abuse of drugs among Ghanaian youth is primarily a failure of the family rather than law enforcement agencies.”
Following a keenly contested debate, St. Anne’s Girls SHS secured first place with 87 points, while Damongo SHS placed second with 82 points.
As part of the awards ceremony, participating schools received cash prizes and essential learning materials, including exercise books, in recognition of their outstanding performances and commitment to promoting drug abuse awareness.
Delivering the welcome address, Commander’s Senior Non-Commissioned Officer (SNCO) Rashida Ewuntomah of the Narcotics Control Commission, Savannah Regional Command, emphasized the significance of the event in raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
She noted that the annual observance of the United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking serves as a reminder of society’s collective responsibility to build healthier, safer, and drug-free communities.
“This competition provides a platform for our young people to express their views, challenge ideas, and contribute meaningfully to discussions on drug prevention and healthy lifestyles. Informed and empowered youth remain among the strongest advocates in the fight against substance abuse,” she stated.
Commander Ewuntomah also encouraged participants to engage respectfully and think critically, stressing that the competition was not only about winning but also about learning, creating awareness, and inspiring positive change within schools and communities.
In brief remarks delivered on behalf of the Managing Director of Ghana Water Limited, Executive Secretary Seidu Kudus Gbeadese Esq. advised students to remain focused on their education and avoid drugs and other harmful social influences that could derail their future aspirations.
He urged the students to become ambassadors against drug abuse in their communities, emphasizing that their future success depends on education, discipline, and making responsible choices.
The debate competition formed part of a series of activities organized by the Narcotics Control Commission to commemorate this year’s World Drug Day. On Tuesday, 23rd June, the Commission also held a seminar for Guidance and Counselling teachers from Senior High Schools and TVET institutions across the Savannah Region to sensitize them on the harmful effects of drug abuse and equip them with the knowledge to support students effectively.
The event concluded with a renewed call on young people to embrace healthy lifestyles and reject substance abuse.
World Drug Day 2026 Message
“Choose Health, Not Drugs; Choose Life, Not Addiction.”
Source: Padfm.com.gh/Kumatey Gorden/0243531604
