(Monrovia, March 19, 2025)—the Montserrado County Health Team has launched a large-scale awareness campaign on drug and substance abuse in schools across Montserrado County. The exercise funded by UNICEF seeks to educate students on the dangers of drug use, its impact on mental health, and the long-term consequences for individuals and communities. The Campaign is a critical step toward the prevention of substance abuse across the country. The month-long campaign features interactive sessions and expert-led discussions designed to engage students in meaningful conversations about substance abuse. The sessions will provide insights into how drug addiction develops the psychological and physical effects of substance use, and strategies to resist peer pressure.

The campaign also includes outreach activities in communities and ghettos, ensuring that young people outside the school system receive similar awareness messages. During one of the discussions, Ansatue Siryon, Mental Health Coordinator at the Montserrado County Health Team, stressed the need for early intervention and education. She noted that many young people fall into substance abuse due to a lack of awareness and support.

“We must equip students with knowledge and coping strategies to prevent them from becoming victims of drug addiction,” she stated. She also emphasized the role of schools and communities in fostering a supportive environment for at-risk youth. According to Madam Siryon, mobilizers are actively engaging residents in the four health districts of Montserrado County, particularly in high-risk areas. These efforts aim to ensure that drug awareness messages reach beyond school walls into communities where substance abuse is prevalent. Teachers and parents have welcomed the initiative, recognizing its importance in addressing a growing societal issue that threatens the future of Liberia’s youth.

As the campaign progresses, school authorities are calling on stakeholders, including community leaders and civil society organizations, to support the initiative. They stress that a collective effort is necessary to combat drug abuse effectively and promote mental well-being among young people. The initiative is expected to have a lasting impact on reducing substance abuse and promoting healthier lifestyles among Liberia’s students.