Comprehensive Approaches Needed to Tackle Drug Abuse, Says Makerere University Dean of Students
Prof. Winfred Kabumbuli, the Dean of Students at Makerere University, has emphasized the necessity of comprehensive strategies to combat the impact of drug abuse effectively.
According Kabumbuli the importance of education, prevention, intervention, and support services in addressing the scourge of drug abuse among the student community should be emphasized for a successful outcome.
“By increasing awareness of the consequences of substance abuse, providing necessary resources, and fostering a culture of well-being and accountability, we can cultivate a healthier campus environment for our students,” Kabumburi stated.
Speaking at the “Understanding Drug Abuse and its Impact on the Youth Symposium” held at the university, Kabumbuli stressed that ignoring the devastating effects of drug abuse only perpetuates cycles of poverty and despair, ultimately affecting future generations.
The Dean underscored the significant toll drug abuse takes on students, impacting not only their academic performance but also their physical and mental well-being.
“Drug abuse can lead to addiction, dependency, and long-term health issues, as well as strain relationships with family and friends, resulting in social isolation and feelings of loneliness,” Kabumbuli explained.
Highlighting the correlation between substance abuse and academic decline, Kabumbuli urged students to seek support and counseling services readily available on campus.
Ms. Grace Kabuye the 03 Plus project contact person cautioned all youth that have issues of any form to always seek support in terms of counseling to whoever is nearest to them and she urged universities to strengthen counseling institutions.
She further called on government to strengthen the laws on the use and sell of drugs so that there can be reduction in drug addicts national wide.
The “03 Plus” project, supported by UNESCO, aims to address the lack of attention given to youth in universities and tertiary institutions concerning their rights and future prospects.
Zabuli, a former drug dealer turned speaker and artist, advised students to be discerning in their choice of friends, resist peer pressure, and seek divine guidance during times of struggle.
According to the Cognizance Journal, Uganda has a high prevalence of drug abuse among youths aged 15-24 years, with approximately 70.1% reported. This figure exceeds the East African average of 45.5%, with 39.1% of youths using substances such as alcohol, kuber, khat, aviation fuel, cannabis, and cigarettes regularly.
The Dean also called upon the government to strengthen laws regulating the use and sale of drugs to curb the rising number of drug addicts nationwide.
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