~ Inaugurate drug-free clubs in secondary schools
A significant step towards preventing drug and substance use was taken today in Nembe Local Government Area. A team from the Bayelsa State Drug Abuse Addiction Prevention and Rehabilitation Committee (BADAPARC) visited three secondary schools to sensitise them against the menace of drug abuse.
The team consisted of Dr. Charles Ronari Owaba and Pharm. Joseph Wariowei, who were assisted by Mr. Alabo Dio, a concerned and active youth from Nembe-Bassambiri who played a key role in the initiative.
At Government Comprehensive Secondary School, Nembe-Bassambiri, the team was warmly received by Mrs. Ayebaitarite Asuku, the Principal, along with Mr. Alabo and a host of other staff members.
While addressing the students, Dr Ronari recalled the days he was in same school as a student, wearing same uniform, before the school’s name was changed to what it is today. He called on the students to desist from every appearance of substance use, stay focused on their studies and be good ambassadors of the school. Pharm Wariowei, in his remarks, provided insights on the separate roles expected of teachers and students in preventing drug abuse. He encouraged the teachers to treat the students with love and compassion while stating clear boundaries, in order to get their trust and confidence.
The highpoint of the visit was the launch of a drug-free club, comprising three student members, with Mr. Demain Pentecost, a dedicated teacher, serving as Coordinator.
At Government Girls Secondary School, Nembe-Bassambiri, the Principal, Mrs. Ayebanengiyefa Jumbo, was excited to see the team and immediately assembled the students for the sensitisation campaign. The speakers delivered a compelling message, taking turns to shed light on the dangers of drug abuse. They stressed that, substance addiction can severely hinder one’s ability to reach their full potential, often resulting in poor academic performance and increased risk of dropping out.
A drug-free club was also established with three students as members, to be coordinated by Mr. Godbless Bunasuotei.
The team also visited Nembe National Grammar School, Nembe-Ogbolomabiri, a model school with boarding facilities and was warmly welcomed by the Principal Mr. Israel Ayebaye in company of some key staff.
The BADAPARC delegation commended the school authority, after confirming that, there had been a previous sensitisation campaign that hosted the Zonal Commander, Zone 13 of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). The interactive session held with the students also revealed that, they had basic knowledge of the subject of drug abuse.
The team was further impressed to see some posters on drug abuse enlightenment from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) being placed strategically on the walls of some of the offices. Interestingly, the school has a thriving drug-free club. The delegation therefore, gave the Coordinator, Mr. Awaki Ebifie, a charge to ensure the club remains active and that, students stay drug-free throughout their time in the school.
BADAPARC MEDIA
