The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has intensified its public health advocacy efforts by taking a drug abuse awareness campaign to Navrongo in the Upper East Region, where students from tertiary institutions were encouraged to reject substance abuse and embrace healthy lifestyles.
The campaign formed part of the “Kampus Konnect” programme organized by Nu-Bia Events and brought together students from universities, colleges of education and nursing training institutions across the region under the theme, “Say No to Drugs, Yes to Life: Protecting Our Future Through Healthy Choices.”
Delivering the keynote address, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the NHIA, Madam Anatu Seidu Bogobiri Esq., urged young people to make responsible choices that would safeguard their future, stressing that drug abuse continues to destroy the dreams and potential of many promising youth.
“It is honestly refreshing to stand before young people like you this afternoon. Every time I enter a space filled with students, I see dreams, ideas, confidence, and the future of Ghana sitting right in front of me,” she said.
According to Madam Bogobiri, the challenges facing young people today are immense, with pressure from academics, social media, peers and personal expectations often pushing some into substance abuse as a means of escape.
“Most addictions do not begin with a big decision. It usually starts small — ‘just try it once’, ‘everybody is doing it’, or ‘it will help you relax’. But slowly, those choices begin to take away your focus, your discipline, your health and eventually your future,” she cautioned.
Drawing from her experiences as a mother and public servant, she noted that she had witnessed many brilliant young people lose life-changing opportunities because of poor choices they believed they could control.
Ms Bogobiri also highlighted several government healthcare interventions aimed at improving access to healthcare services for Ghanaians.
She explained that the ongoing NHIS registration and renewal waiver exercise had temporarily removed processing fees, premiums and the one-month waiting period to enable more citizens to access healthcare services immediately.
She further spoke about the Free Primary Healthcare initiative, which focuses on prevention, early diagnosis and timely treatment, as well as the Mahama Cares programme, which seeks to support individuals living with chronic and long-term illnesses.
“While these interventions are different, they are all connected by one important goal — protecting lives and making healthcare more accessible to ordinary Ghanaians,” she stated.
The NHIA Deputy CEO also used the occasion to raise awareness about mental health, encouraging students experiencing emotional difficulties to seek support rather than resort to drugs or other harmful coping mechanisms.
“Mental health is real. Some people are smiling publicly but struggling privately. If you are overwhelmed, stressed, anxious or emotionally tired, speak to somebody. Ask for help. There is absolutely no shame in that,” she advised.
A touching moment at the event was the recognition of Barry, a young man who shared his personal journey of overcoming drug addiction and rebuilding his life.
Madam Bogobiri praised his courage and determination, describing his testimony as a source of hope and inspiration for many young people battling similar challenges.
“Barry, I salute you. Your journey from struggle to purpose is deeply inspiring. The courage it took to overcome this horrible addiction and share your story to help others is rare. Your story is a story of hope for so many young people. I am proud of you, Barry. No turning back. Keep leading,” she said to loud applause from participants.
She also commended Barry’s family for supporting him throughout his recovery and for allowing him to publicly share his experience to educate others.
The programme ended with a strong call on students to remain focused on their academic goals, avoid negative influences and become responsible citizens capable of contributing meaningfully to national development.
“The decisions you make today can shape the rest of your life. Choose wisely. Choose peace. Choose discipline. Choose healthy habits. And most importantly, choose life,” Madam Bogobiri added.
Some of the participating students commended officers of the NHIA and the government for the program and expressed the believe that it would help curb the menace.
Source: Felix NYAABA// expressnewsghana.com