Mr. and Miss Tourism Teso Lead Drug-Free World Campaign at Serere SS.

By Peterson Hiirya.

Uganda – Mr. Tourism Teso Ambassador Emmanuel Opio and Miss Tourism Teso 2025, Queen Amsolo Pauline Lizelle, have called on young people across the Teso sub-region to reject drug abuse and become ambassadors of a drug-free generation during the launch of the Drug-Free World Campaign at Serere Senior Secondary School.

The campaign brought together students, teachers and youth leaders to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse while equipping learners with life skills to resist peer pressure and make responsible choices.

Speaking during the event, Emmanuel Opio, a youth advocate and Mr. Tourism Teso Ambassador, trained students in public speaking and communication skills, encouraging them to confidently spread anti-drug messages within their schools and communities.

“We discussed effective communication, active listening, speech preparation and confidence in public speaking so that these young people can become advocates for a drug-free world,” Opio said.

He warned that drug abuse has become a silent pandemic affecting many young people in Uganda, noting that alcohol and marijuana remain among the most abused substances.

“Drugs promise freedom and confidence, but in reality they create dependence, anxiety and destroy dreams. The best decision any young person can make is never to take drugs in the first place,” he emphasized.

Opio also urged university students to practice refusal skills and avoid situations that expose them to drugs.

“When someone offers you alcohol or drugs, be confident enough to say no. Replace harmful habits with positive activities like sports, reading, joining clubs and surrounding yourself with people who add value to your life,” he advised.

He encouraged fellow youth leaders to use social media and peer counselling to consistently spread awareness about the dangers of drug abuse.

Miss Tourism Teso 2025, Queen Amsolo Pauline Lizelle, challenged students to become each other’s keepers by supporting friends who may be struggling with drug abuse instead of discriminating against them.

“We are starting this campaign in schools because values are built while people are still young. Encourage those who are going astray instead of isolating them so they can reform and build a better future,” she said.

Addressing young girls, Pauline urged them to remain confident in who they are and resist pressure to fit into unhealthy social circles.

“Many girls fall into drugs because they want to fit in or appear fashionable. Know your worth, be content with who you are and never allow anyone to influence you into destroying your future,” she said.

She also warned students preparing to join universities to avoid chasing lifestyles beyond their means, saying contentment and wise friendships are key to staying away from drugs and crime.

Beyond the anti-drug campaign, Pauline pledged to continue promoting tourism across the Teso sub-region even after handing over her crown, saying the region has many untapped tourism attractions that deserve national attention.

She also called for continued community sensitization on environmental conservation and gender-based violence, emphasizing that empowering women must go hand in hand with educating men and boys to respect and protect women.

The Drug-Free World Campaign at Serere Senior Secondary School is part of ongoing efforts by youth leaders and community partners to educate young people about the dangers of substance abuse while promoting positive lifestyles, leadership and responsible decision-making.

Organizers expressed optimism that the campaign will inspire students to become peer educators and champions of healthy, drug-free communities across the Teso sub-region.