37% of SHS Students Exposed to Drugs: Ghana Ministry Shifts Strategy Toward Mental Health Support

A stark survey released by Ghana's Ministry for Youth Development has revealed that more than one-third of Senior High School (SHS) students across the country have been exposed to drug use or the drug trade. The findings, announced by Sector Minister George Opare-Addo, highlight a burgeoning public health crisis within the educational sector. According to the data, 37% of SHS students and 41% of tertiary students are currently encountering drug-related activities, suggesting that the reach of illicit substances extends deep into the nation's academic institutions.

The data becomes even more concerning when looking at specific educational categories. Colleges of Education reported the highest levels of drug awareness and exposure, with a staggering 54% of respondents acknowledging the presence of drug use in their environment. Minister Opare-Addo expressed grave concern over these figures, noting that such high exposure rates pose a direct threat to the academic integrity of these institutions and the future well-being of Ghana’s youth. The findings were shared as part of the “Show Your Love” campaign, which seeks to highlight the urgent need for parental and community involvement in safeguarding students from these risks.

In response to these alarming trends, the Ministry for Youth Development is spearheading a fundamental shift in how the state handles drug-related issues in schools. Moving away from traditional punitive measures that often marginalize or expel affected students, the government intends to implement a more compassionate, supportive framework. This new approach prioritizes mental health literacy and integrates comprehensive support systems within youth development programs. By fostering an environment of understanding rather than punishment, officials hope to provide a pathway for recovery and prevention that preserves the long-term potential of the Ghanaian youth.