AIDO Network International Extends Drug-Free World Campaign Across Teso Schools.
By Skika Reporter.
AIDO Network International on Tuesday intensified its Drug-Free World campaign, taking anti-drug awareness messages to hundreds of learners in schools across Teso as part of efforts to curb the growing challenge of substance abuse among young people.
The day’s activities began at Asuret Seed Secondary School before the campaign team travelled in a convoy to Gweri Secondary School in Soroti District and later concluded the school sensitization sessions at Soroti Secondary School in Soroti City.
Led by the Board Chairperson of AIDO Network International, Princess Ulrike Poullman Achom, the team engaged students in interactive discussions on the dangers of drug and substance abuse, urging them to make informed decisions that safeguard their health, education and future.
Addressing learners at the three schools, Princess Ulrike explained the harmful effects of substances including alcohol, methamphetamine, stimulants, cocaine and heroin on the brain, body and mental well-being.
She stressed that the campaign is not intended to frighten young people but to equip them with factual information that enables them to resist peer pressure and make responsible life choices.
She also expressed concern over the increasing link between drug abuse and criminal activities, calling for collective action by schools, parents and communities to protect young people from the dangers of addiction.
At Gweri Secondary School, students openly shared experiences about the prevalence of alcohol and drug abuse among some youth within their communities, allowing facilitators to address misconceptions and discuss practical ways of avoiding substance abuse.
The Head Boy of Gweri Secondary School, Akwap Julius, acknowledged that drug abuse remains a challenge among some learners and youth in the surrounding community. He said the sensitization had opened students’ eyes to the negative impact of drugs on academic performance and discipline.
Julius revealed that the school now intends to strengthen anti-drug initiatives by establishing a Drug-Free Club to champion awareness campaigns within the school and neighbouring communities.
Senior Six student Emmanuel Echogia described the training as life-changing, saying it had helped him understand the devastating effects of drugs and substance abuse.
He noted that many young people in the area abuse marijuana and locally distilled alcohol, commonly known as waragi, but pledged to stay away from such habits after the sensitization.
Another student, James Opio, applauded AIDO Network International for taking the campaign directly to schools, saying the sessions enabled learners to clearly understand the dangers associated with drug and substance abuse.
The day’s campaign concluded with a Unity Football Match at Soroti Sports Grounds between Kumam Cultural Heritage and Iteso Cultural Union.
His Higness Dr Paul Jon’s Eganda founder AIDO Network International said the sporting event was intended to reinforce the campaign’s message that healthy lifestyles, community unity and youth engagement are key in the fight against drug and substance abuse across Teso.
