Alcohol consumption among the youth in universities has been increasing at an alarming rate.
World Health Organization (WHO) statistics estimate that over 2.08 million people between the ages of 12 to 17 years are using drugs monthly.
Some are using drugs as a mechanism to cope with stress, depression, among many other reasons.
Discrimination and lack of love from parents due to tight working schedules could also lead to some youth finding comfort in drug consumption.
Parents have also played a role in exposing their children to alcohol at an early age. Parents who take alcohol in front of their children or leave some alcohol in bottles could lead to their children to start consuming alcohol out of curiosity.
The parents and guardians have a role to play in ending this menace if only they could have open communication on drug use and abuse with their children. Parents with adolescent children should not shy away from talking about drugs and their side effects. This will help their children make informed decisions in the future.
Another reason behind the increasing cases is the desire to feel good. Some youth take drugs due to peer pressure and they end up being addicts.
Television programs also contribute to drug abuse among the youth. Some of these programs which promote the consumption of alcohol should be banned.
Having open conversations with youths on campus can help them to understand the effects of drug abuse. The government should also hold seminars and campaigns on the effects of drug abuse.
Albert Ouma, Communication and journalism student at Rongo University
