The Ministry of Education has launched a nationwide campaign aimed at tackling drug abuse among students in schools across Ghana.
The initiative, known as the Behavioural Change Communication (BCC) Campaign, is being implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of the Interior and the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC).
The campaign seeks to address the growing concern over substance abuse among school-aged children and promote safer learning environments.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Education on June 27, 2026, the programme forms part of the government’s proactive efforts to protect learners from the harmful effects of drugs while encouraging healthy lifestyles and responsible behaviour.
As part of the campaign, the Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has directed the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES) to introduce a daily anti-drug awareness message in all pre-tertiary schools across the country.
Under the directive, students will recite the approved message during morning assembly sessions immediately after the National Anthem and before the National Pledge.
The message is designed as a simple call-and-response exercise. School leaders will say, “Don’t start it as a greeting,” and students will respond, “To live in regret.” Authorities believe the message will serve as a constant reminder of the dangers associated with drug use.
The ministry said the initiative is a key component of a broader national strategy to discourage substance abuse among young people. It is expected to strengthen preventive education and encourage students to make informed and responsible decisions.
Beyond the daily recitation, the campaign will also include public education programmes, school-based sensitisation activities, stakeholder engagement sessions and stronger collaboration among schools, parents, community leaders and other partners.
Education officials say the fight against drug abuse requires the support of all sectors of society and have called on parents, teachers and community members to actively participate in the campaign.
The Ministry of Education reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the wellbeing of learners and ensuring that schools remain safe spaces for teaching and learning.
It expressed hope that the campaign would help reduce drug abuse and contribute to the development of a healthier and more disciplined generation of students across Ghana.
