UER: SamAiam Foundation Intensifies Anti-Drug Abuse Campaign in Bolgatanga Schools

Gladys Apuweni

The SamAiam Foundation has intensified its anti drug abuse awareness campaign across Junior High Schools in the Bolgatanga Municipality of the Upper East Region, with the aim of educating pupils on the dangers associated with drug abuse, alcoholism, and other forms of indiscipline.
The educational outreach, led by Madam Gladys Apuweni, a broadcast journalist with GBC URA Radio, engages students on the harmful effects of substance abuse and the importance of making responsible life choices. During the sessions, pupils are educated on the serious health risks associated with drug abuse and encouraged to stay focused on their education.
Addressing students during the engagements, Madam Apuweni advised them to take their studies seriously, emphasizing that they are the future leaders of the nation. She noted that drug abuse continues to destroy lives, careers, and destinies, particularly among the youth, and urged students to resist peer pressure and avoid all forms of harmful behavior.

She further appealed to non governmental organizations, benevolent individuals, corporate institutions, and the general public to support the initiative spearheaded by Mr. Samuel Asaa, popularly known as SamAiam. According to her, collective action is needed to safeguard the future of young people and help curb the growing menace of substance abuse in society.
“Prevention is better than cure,” Madam Apuweni stressed, adding that early education and awareness remain effective tools in the fight against drug abuse among schoolchildren and young people.

She disclosed that the team has so far visited six Junior High Schools within the municipality, namely St. John’s JHS, Anglican JHS, Abilba JHS, Bolgatanga Preparatory JHS, Tahiriya Islamic JHS, and Nurul Islamic JHS. The outreach campaign is still ongoing, with plans to extend the education programme to many more schools and communities in order to reach as many young people as possible.
The initiative forms part of the SamAiam Foundation’s broader commitment to promoting discipline, responsible behavior, and positive youth development across the Upper East Region. Through education and mentorship, the foundation hopes to inspire young people to make informed decisions and contribute positively to society.