Date: January 29, 2024
In a groundbreaking initiative, the diligent students of the Public Health Department at Njala University have taken the reins in the fight against substance abuse, orchestrating a compelling public lecture at the Paramedical Campus amphitheatre. Today, January 29, 2024, marked a pivotal moment as the campus played host to a distinguished panel of experts shedding light on the pervasive issue of substance abuse among youths and its profound implications for our society.
The weeklong campaign, part of a broader advocacy on environmental health, has set its sights on one of the most pressing concerns facing our youth: drug abuse. The paramount objective is to raise awareness, initiate discourse, and stimulate action in combating this insidious threat.
At the forefront of this intellectual battle was the esteemed Prof. Sahr Foday, Executive Director of the National Public Health Agency (NPHA-SL). His keynote address was a tour de force, providing a comprehensive overview of the current state of substance abuse and its detrimental effects on the younger generation. Prof. Foday’s insightful presentation delved into the nuances of the issue, dissecting the root causes, societal implications, and potential solutions.
Joining him were luminaries such as the presidential adviser on mental health, Dr. Carol Labour, and the distinguished Dean of the School of Community Health Sciences, Prof. Rashid Ansuma. Their collective presence underscored the gravity of the situation and the collaborative effort required to tackle this public health crisis head-on.
The Public Health Department, in partnership with these eminent personalities, made a compelling case for recognising substance abuse as a bona fide public health concern. The speakers highlighted the urgent need for a multifaceted approach, encompassing education, policy changes, and community engagement, to address the complex interplay of factors contributing to drug abuse.
The campus amphitheatre became a melting pot of ideas, experiences, and expertise as students, faculty, and invited guests engaged in a dynamic exchange of thoughts. The event served as a rallying point, igniting a spark within the community to actively participate in the ongoing advocacy for healthier, drug-free youth.
As the weeklong campaign unfolds, the Public Health Department at Njala University aims to create a ripple effect, extending the conversation beyond the campus walls and into the broader community. The fight against youth substance abuse requires collective action, and this public lecture has laid the foundation for a united front against a common adversary.
In conclusion, the public lecture on substance use, abuse, and misuse at the Njala University Paramedical campus stands as a beacon of hope and enlightenment. Prof. Sahr Foday, along with other distinguished speakers, has set the stage for a sustained and impactful campaign that aims to reshape the narrative around youth substance abuse, fostering a healthier, more resilient society for generations to come.
