Youths should take charge of fighting drug, substance abuse
WESTWOOD College in Kambuzuma, Harare, is a school that places significant emphasis on the first term of the academic calendar as a critical period for planning for the entire year.
At the onset of the academic year, pupilss are encouraged to set resolutions and goals for what they aim to achieve throughout the year.
This proactive approach sets the tone for the pupils’ academic and personal development, inspiring them to strive for success in all aspects of their lives.
As Benjamin Franklin aptly puts it, “By failing to plan, you are preparing to fail.”
One of the primary goals of the school is to combat drug and substance abuse through awareness and proactive measures.
Drug and substance abuse has become a scourge among the youth in Zimbabwe, to the extent that even the president of Zimbabwe has taken stern measures to try and control this menace.
It is the responsibility of every Zimbabwean citizen to eradicate drug and substance abuse.
Drug and substance abuse involves the use of certain chemicals to create pleasurable effects on the brain.
youths often get involved in drug and substance abuse as a means of escaping the harsh economic environment or to avoid social problems they may be facing.
Some get involved due to peer pressure, trying to fit in with society and peer groups.
The millennial generation experiences an identity crisis, which they may try to cover up by abusing drugs.
Additionally, drug and substance abuse often results from a sense of rebellion. The millennial youths are very experimental and may try substances ranging from used diapers to unexpected items like breakfast cereals, glue, and mutoriro, mbanje.
The consequences of drug and substance abuse are severe.
Families disintegrate, as addiction may drive the youth to steal from their own families, leading to conflicts and potentially divorce.
This, in turn, may cause youths to drop out of school.
Drug abuse can also lead to unwanted teenage pregnancies and early child marriages, often accompanied by gender-based violence.
Additionally, drug and substance abuse clouds judgment, leading to negligent sexual practices and the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. In an attempt to satisfy their addiction, youths engage in criminal activities such as robberies and even murder.
There has been an increase in robberies and murder cases committed by drug addicts in recent years, with minors as young as four years old being seen abusing alcohol.
The most tragic consequence is the premature death of youths who are meant to be the leaders of tomorrow.
Various organizations have launched programs to raise awareness about the short- and long-term effects of drug and substance abuse. Awareness campaigns are being conducted from grassroots to tertiary levels.
To address the root causes, President Mnangagwa has taken a strong stance against drug and substance abuse, urging the police to crack down on drug peddlers.
Junior Members of Parliament also have a role to play in eradicating drug and substance abuse problems in their constituencies.
Schools’ awareness programmes should be led by junior parliamentarians, junior councillors, and school prefects, as youths often listen to advice from their peers.
In addition to raising awareness and enforcement, empowering the youths is crucial in the fight against substance abuse.
By implementing youth empowerment programs in sectors like agriculture, forestry, and others, we can offer the youth meaningful opportunities for independence and focus, serving as effective deterrents against substance abuse.
Furthermore, the involvement of parents and the wider community is vital.
Parents play a key role in providing guidance, support, and setting positive examples for their children.
Establishing open lines of communication between parents and their children can help in creating a supportive environment and preventing substance abuse.
Additionally, the community at large can contribute by organising educational events, providing mentorship, and fostering a culture that prioritises the well-being and future success of its young members.
Together, these multifaceted efforts can make a significant impact in combating substance abuse and steering the youth towards healthier and more promising paths.
In conclusion, let’s come together as a country to strive for a generation free from drug abuse.
As a wise scholar once said, “I am who I am because you are since you are, therefore I am” – J.S. Mbiti.
This emphasizes the interconnectedness of our actions and the impact they have on shaping the future.
By working collectively and supporting one another, we can build a brighter, healthier future for our youth, free from the harms of substance abuse.