STORY: Alhassan S Suhiyini
The Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, Hon. George Opare Addo, has raised serious concerns over rising substance use and emerging behavioural health challenges among young people, while outlining strategic interventions to safeguard their wellbeing and boost employment opportunities.
Speaking during the State of the Youth Address (SOYA 2025) on Wednesday November 05 2025, the Minister revealed that alcohol remains the most accessible substance among students, with 86% reporting easy access. He further noted that weed edibles (59%) and marijuana (53%) followed closely, indicating the growing prevalence of illicit substances within schools.
Hon. Opare Addo described drug use as a “mainstream challenge” affecting both secondary and tertiary institutions, stressing the urgent need for national attention.
He pledged that the Ministry would spearhead early intervention, awareness programmes, counselling services and professional mental health support to address the situation.The Minister also pointed to gaming addiction as a worrying development among the youth. He cited calls by mental health professionals for intensified education, public sensitisation and policy measures to curb the emerging crisis.
Beyond health concerns, Hon. Opare Addo outlined plans to enhance employability and transition into the job market. He announced that the Ministry would work closely with the private sector to introduce structured workplace learning and Graduate Employment Programmes, providing young people with hands-on experience and better access to job opportunities.