By Gilbert Azeem Tiroog

The Nabdam District Office of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has urged students of Kongo Senior High School (SHS) in the Nabdam District to stay away from illicit drugs, describing drug abuse as a major threat to their education, health, and future opportunities.

Mr Joachim Elbazar, the Nabdam District Director of the NCCE, made the remarks during a sensitisation programme held at the school on Monday, February 9, 2026.

The sensitisation formed part of ongoing efforts to promote responsible behaviour among young people and to discourage drug abuse among students and youth groups in the district.

Mr Elbazar noted that drug abuse among the youth continues to undermine academic performance, discipline, and future productivity.

He identified peer pressure and curiosity as some of the main factors influencing students to experiment with drugs and urged them to resist such tendencies.

He explained that substances such as marijuana, cocaine, alcohol, glue, and other hard drugs impair judgment, reduce concentration, and affect students’ ability to make informed decisions, often resulting in poor academic outcomes and behavioural problems.

He urged students to remain focused on their studies and resist negative influences, stressing that education remains the surest pathway to personal growth and community development.

The Nabdam District Director of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), Madam Patricia A. Ayichuru, highlighted the legal and human rights implications of drug abuse.

She explained that substance abuse often leads to criminal behaviour, including physical assault and sexual violence, noting that rape is a first-degree felony punishable by prison sentences of up to 25 years.

Madam Ayichuru added that drug users frequently face stigma and discrimination within their communities and are often suspected whenever crimes occur, further limiting their opportunities in life.


She advised students to make informed choices that would protect their freedom, dignity, and future.

The Presiding Member of the Nabdam District Assembly, Mr Bruce Bugre Bugdor, cautioned students against allowing drug abuse to derail their educational and life goals.

He said substance abuse could lead to long-term health challenges, poor academic performance, and conflict with the law, and urged students to remain disciplined, respect authority, and prioritise their education to become responsible citizens.