The Member of Parliament for Okaikwei South, Ernest Adomako, has urged the Ministry of Education to institute random drug testing across Senior High Schools and tertiary institutions.
His appeal comes amid growing concern over what he described as a troubling rise in youth drug abuse that could erode Ghana’s human capital gains.
Addressing journalists, the MP warned that the sustained impact of drug use among students threatens to negate the long-term advantages of the government’s Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy.
“The Ministry of Education should at least do some random tests anytime students vacate and return to school.The government is spending so much money on this free education so that these kids can grow and become useful for our nation. But, the rate at which they are engaging in drugs, smoking weed, and abusing ‘red’ is alarming.”
The legislator stressed that the misuse of public funds on students who will later succumb to drug-related complications could become a national liability.
“We spend lots of money on these kids, and later they become a liability to this country. If we have to spend money on these kids, we have to spend wisely on those who are serious about studying.
He went further to propose mandatory drug testing prior to national service, especially for university graduates seeking placements in government agencies.
According to the MP, such policies would help preserve the integrity of Ghana’s future workforce.
“Free education is draining our economy. We should even extend testing to universities, and before you do your national service, we should test your blood to know that you are not engaging in any hard drugs. It is destroying their future”.
