ZNFPC participates in Drug Abuse Awareness amongst Adolescents and Youths at Vision College in Mufakose
For Youth by Youth, a youth-led organization based in Mufakose working on creating awareness on the dangers of drug and substance use and abuse joined hands with the Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council (ZNFPC) in educating students of Vision College about drug awareness, rights, hygiene and mental awareness.
By Tafadzwa Matangira (ZNFPC Student Intern – University of Zimbabwe)
The two organizations informed students on how adolescents and young people are abusing alcohol, drugs and toxic substances. Students were educated on the consequences of drug use such as school drop-out, teen pregnancy, child marriages, sexually transmitted infections and criminal activities. ZNFPC donated pads to the female students promoting the pad bank campaign being spearheaded by the Brand Ambassador Mrs Adiona Chidzonga to empower young girls to be confident and appreciate menstrual hygiene management issues.
Drug abuse can lead to addition which occurs due to changes in structures and functions of the brain related to substance abuse. Addiction is characterized by being unable to stop using drugs or alcohol compulsively even though they are causing problems in life. The issue of drug abuse has been rampant amongst adolescents and youths hereby destroying their future. The Zimbabwe Republic Police are working tirelessly to prosecute perpetrators of such crimes as they are causing unrest in societies. Parents and advised to engage in open communication with their children to teach them good morals and empower them to make informed health choices regarding their future.