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Sierra Leone’s student leaders are calling for a multi-pronged approach to combat the widespread use of illegal drugs among students particularly the dangerous synthetic drug known as Kush.
In a press conference organized by the National Union of Sierra Leone Students (NUSS), Fourah Bay College (FBC) Student Union President Alfred M. Sesay said over 85% of college students are reportedly using illegal substances like Kush, Tramadol, and Ecstasy.
“We, the students, that are supposed to educate other people, are the ones abusing drugs,” Sesay said, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
The press conference aimed to brainstorm solutions to tackle the drug epidemic. Sesay emphasized student responsibility, urging student leaders to actively campaign against Kush in communities where it’s sold.
“Kush has become an alarming thing,” echoed Abdul Malik Sawaneh, the Student Union President of the Milton Margai Technical University (MMTU). He stressed the dangers of other substances as well, pinpointing peer pressure as a key driver of drug use among youth.
Sawaneh called on the Ministry of Higher Education and the Youth Ministry to implement drug prevention programs, starting from primary schools and involving community leaders.
Ibrahim Tunkara, Secretary General of the Institute of Public Administration and Management, expressed deep concern about the “appalling and devastating” rate of drug consumption. He urged the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) to intensify efforts to apprehend Kush importers and retailers.
The fight against drugs extends beyond Kush, warned Mohamed Jaward Nyallay, a guest speaker. He pointed out the emerging trend of “Moli” and ecstasy use, calling them potential future threats. Nyallay emphasized the need for a multifaceted approach, including individual responsibility, to dismantle the growing drug culture.
Sierra Leone’s students are taking a stand against the drug epidemic, urging authorities and fellow youth to join the fight for a healthier future.
Aaaaaaaaaa!! Mr president how did you get your data? I’m worried we are all using drugs.
85 percent is an exaggeration!
Was a survey conducted or is he just talking without data ? For someone to say 85% , one will assume a survey was done
No one is denying the fact that students are into a drugs, but the over 85% is too much now to believe.
This is hard to believe information Mr president.
If 85% of university students are engaged in drug (kush) intake, it means almost all students in your college are in….
As a student, we must speak with authority when it comes to data. 85% is a huge number. If your stats is true then am worried our country is in big trouble
[…] National Union of Sierra Leone Students (NUSS) has also expressed grave concerns about the levels of drug abuse among university students across […]