The Chairman of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Education, Peter Nortsu-Kotoe, has urged students of Mawuli Senior High School to stay away from drugs and remain focused on their academic pursuits.

Speaking during a visit to the school as part of a nationwide tour to assess the challenges faced by educational institutions, Mr. Nortsu-Kotoe, who is also the MP for Akatsi North, advised students to resist peer pressure and avoid drug abuse, especially the dangerous substance known in street terms as “Red”.

“Stay away from drugs. Don’t allow your peers to influence you to deviate from the path you’ve charted for yourselves,” he cautioned.

“Those who tempt you today won’t be there for you tomorrow when you’re in trouble. Drug abuse will only derail your future.”

Using vivid imagery, Mr. Nortsu-Kotoe described the disorienting effects of hard drugs.

“Some of you may have seen on television how people under the influence of drugs appear to be sleeping while standing. That is not the future we want for you.”

He urged students never to experiment with drugs, even out of curiosity. “If anyone offers it to you to taste, say no. You don’t know what the outcome will be. As young men and women aspiring to successful careers, you must stay focused and determined.”

Highlighting the importance of role models, the Chairman encouraged students to look up to their seniors and alumni as examples of excellence and strive to surpass their achievements. “Let your old students be your inspiration and aim to achieve even more.”

Mr. Nortsu-Kotoe assured the students that the Committee had taken note of their challenges and would push for government intervention. “We are here not just to sit in Accra and assume everything is fine. We came to see and hear for ourselves, and we will recommend to the government how best these challenges can be addressed.”

He also commended the teachers of Mawuli SHS for their dedication and hard work.

“But for them, you would not be where you are today. We appreciate their sacrifices, and we hope you, the students, will also support and respect them.”

The tour forms part of the committee's effort to directly engage with schools across the country to better inform policy decisions and educational reforms.