HIGH
SCHOOL ON WORLD NO TOBACCO DAY
Willingway Recovery & Rehabilitation Center Commemorates World No Tobacco Day with a Sensitization Program
On May 31st, 2024, in observance of World No Tobacco Day, Willingway Recovery & Rehabilitation Center, in collaboration with Ejisu Social Welfare, organized a impactful Substance Use Sensitization Program at Kwamo M/A Junior High School. This initiative was designed to educate students about the dangers of tobacco use, with a special focus on protecting children from the manipulative tactics of the tobacco industry.
The theme for this year's campaign, “Protecting Children from the Tobacco Industry,”, highlights the critical need to safeguard young minds from marketing strategies that promote tobacco consumption and to prevent the onset of addiction among the youth.
Objectives of the Program
The primary goals of this sensitization effort included:
The Headmistress of Kwamo M/A Junior High School, who emphasized the importance of such educational initiatives. She expressed her school's commitment to fostering student well-being and highlighted the importance of protecting students from harmful substances, including tobacco.
An interactive presentation done by Ms. Fidel Kwakye, a Disability and Rehabilitation Practitioner from Willingway Recovery and Rehabilitation Centre. Using visual aids and videos, Ms. Kwakye vividly illustrated the health impacts of tobacco use and shared vital information with the students.
Key topics covered included:
a. Health Risks of Tobacco Use:
b. Tactics Used by the Tobacco Industry:
c. Protecting Yourself and Embracing Healthy Alternatives:
To maximize understanding, the presentation incorporated Q&A sessions where students shared questions and insights, fostering an open and participatory learning environment. This approach helped reinforce key messages and addressed students’ concerns directly.
Madam Lydia Abena Manu, CEO of Willingway Recovery and Rehabilitation Centre, expressed gratitude to Kwamo Junior High School for their cooperation and commended the students for their active participation. She reiterated the importance of making informed, healthy choices, and encouraged students to become ambassadors of awareness by sharing what they learned with friends and family.
Conclusion
The World No Tobacco Day Sensitization Program at Kwamo M/A Junior High School represents a vital step toward educating young people about the dangers of tobacco. Through engaging presentations and active participation, the program successfully conveyed the critical message of “Protecting Children from the Tobacco Industry.”
Such initiatives are essential in the broader fight against substance abuse and are instrumental in building a healthier, more informed future generation. Willingway Recovery & Rehabilitation Center remains dedicated to supporting community efforts that promote health, awareness, and prevention.