Online Reporter
Belinda Nyadzisai
DRUG and substance abuse is causing immense suffering among young people, leading to a decline in academic performance and a lack of respect for elders.
The effects are severe and well-documented. They include loss of concentration,
memory loss, hallucinations and aggressive behaviour.
Teachers are increasingly forced to spend valuable class time addressing substance-related issues rather than focusing on their core responsibility of teaching.
As learners, we must remember the primary reason we are in school: to learn and build a foundation for our future.
It is crucial to understand that drugs are never the answer. While alcohol may be a part of adult life, it is best to prioritise education first.
For those who have already started using substances, it is never too late to stop. Help is available. If you feel you cannot stop on your own, professional rehabilitation can be a lifeline.
Many learners cite various reasons for abusing drugs, such as stress, abuse by parents or guardians, peer pressure, a desire to experiment, the need to get high or even pressure from schoolwork.
However, using substances in an academic or athletic setting only has adverse effects.
The community has a vital role to play in addressing this crisis. Many young people report getting their supplies from older members of society.
We must do more to protect learners from drug and substance abuse, both at school and at home.
A community-wide approach involving parents, teachers and local leaders can be the most effective way to tackle this problem.
Belinda Nyadzisai is a Lower Sixth learner in Harare. Learners can write short poems/stories or about special events at their schools and send to [email protected]
