The University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) Basic School (UBS), in partnership with the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), commemorated the 3rd UBS World Drug Day on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, under the theme “World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses.”
The event began with a vibrant awareness float through the streets of Ho, drawing participation from fourteen (14) basic schools across the municipality. It culminated in a ceremony at the University’s Cedi Auditorium, Sokode-Lokoe, Ho where speakers emphasized the urgent need for preventive measures against drug abuse.
The UHAS Basic School Headmaster, Mr. Seth Korgah, warned of rising drug abuse among children, stressing the importance of education and community involvement. The Pro-Vice Chancellor of UHAS, Professor Frank Edwin, urged students to resist substance abuse, highlighting its destructive impact on health, academics and future ambitions. He called for collective responsibility among parents, schools and communities to foster supportive environments.
A panel discussion featuring representatives from the Ghana Police Service, Food and Drugs Authority, Ghana Education Service and Social Welfare Department examined the prevalence of drug abuse in schools and strategies to curb its effects.
The Volta Regional NACOC Commander, Mr. Worlanyo K. Fianu, Senior Narcotic Control Officer, underscored the evolving challenges of drug trafficking and abuse, urging innovative prevention strategies and stronger collaboration among stakeholders. The Destiny Club of UBS also engaged peers in an interactive session on risks and prevention methods, which resonated strongly with the student / pupil audience.
The Board Chairperson of UBS, Professor Evelyn Ansah, closed the ceremony with a rallying message, encouraging students to reject drugs and embrace education, faith and ambition. She reminded them: “The decisions you make today will shape the future you aspire to achieve.”
The programme brought together schools including Anglican Basic, Bankoe E.P., Riis Presby, Methodist JHS, Heve Basic, Mawuli Basic, Ho Kpodzi JHS, Dome E.P., United M.A., Philip Akpo JHS, Rising Star Academy, Ho Technical University Basic, Fiave Global JHS and Nuriya Islamic Basic. Senior high schools such as Mawuko E.P. Girls, OLA Girls and Wallahs Academy also participated, reinforcing the collective stand against drug abuse.
