The AIDO Drug Free world team handing over drug free education kits to the school administration of Asinge Secondary School.

TORORO – Students of Asinge Secondary School in Tororo District have been urged to stay away from drug abuse and adopt responsible lifestyles to safeguard their health, education and future.

The call was made during a drug abuse awareness and sensitisation outreach organised by AIDO Network International in Partnership with the Serere Secondary School Drug-Free World Club.

The outreach brought together students, teachers and school administrators for an interactive session on the dangers of substance abuse. Facilitators highlighted the health, psychological, social and academic effects associated with drug use and encouraged learners to make informed decisions.

Addressing the students, the facilitators challenged them to resist peer pressure, remain committed to their studies and become champions of drug-free living within their schools and communities.

“Every young person has the ability to make choices that shape their future. Rejecting drugs is one of the most important decisions students can make to achieve their dreams and become productive members of society, “Mr. Andrew Ocana, the drug free club patron of Serere S.S said.

The members of  Serere Secondary School drug free club preparing to distribute the drug free education materials to students at Asinge S.S.

Students actively participated in the session by asking questions and sharing their views on the growing challenge of substance abuse among young people. Discussions also focused on practical prevention measures, including peer support, awareness campaigns and responsible decision-making.

The organisers commended the administration and staff of Asinge Secondary School for supporting the initiative and applauded the students for their enthusiasm and active participation. They also acknowledged and thanked Queen Mother Harriet Akisa, the cultural coordinator for AIDO Network International for her dedication and facilitating the drug free campaign.

At the close of the outreach, the students pledged to serve as ambassadors for drug-free living by sharing the knowledge acquired with their peers and encouraging healthy lifestyle choices in their communities.

The organisers said similar sensitisation programmes will be extended to more schools across the country as part of continued efforts to combat drug abuse through education and community engagement.

By A. JEALINE