- Etago Catholic Parish priest Fr Benjamin Ndemo says children are copying drug and alcohol abuse from irresponsible adults.
- He warns that substance abuse is contributing to school fires, poor academic performance and rising cases of crime among learners.
- The priest has called for a joint effort by parents, schools, churches and security agencies to protect children from drugs.
The rampant abuse of drugs and alcohol by underage children, copied from irresponsible adults, is contributing to the rising cases of school fires across the country, a Catholic priest has warned.
Father Benjamin Ndemo of Etago Catholic Parish in South Mugirango Constituency said many adults consume alcohol and abuse drugs to escape their responsibilities, leaving their children exposed to the same harmful behaviours.
Father Ndemo blamed irresponsible adults for targeting school-going children with illicit drugs.
“Some collect drugs and mix them with sweets, mandazi and other goodies that they sell to unsuspecting learners. The children get intoxicated, develop bad minds and, at the slightest provocation, they set their schools on fire, only to regret it later,” he said.
He argued that drug abuse among learners has become a growing concern that requires urgent intervention from all stakeholders.
Effects on learners and families
According to the priest, the consequences of substance abuse extend beyond school fires.
He said affected learners often experience poor academic performance, school dropout, mental health challenges, violence and early pregnancies.
Many also end up in conflict with the law or are lured into crime to sustain their drug habits.
Father Ndemo added that the vice has also had devastating effects on families.
He said many parents spend household income on alcohol and drugs instead of food, school fees and other basic needs, exposing children to poverty and neglect.
“When a parent is drunk every evening, who will check homework? Who will ensure the child goes to school? Many children are now raising themselves and they fall prey to bad company,” he said.
Call for collective action
The priest called for a coordinated effort to eliminate drug and substance abuse from society.
He urged parents to lead by example, security agencies to crack down on those selling drugs to minors, schools to strengthen guidance and counselling programmes, and churches and communities to intensify public awareness campaigns.
READ ALSO: CS Murkomen urges equal opportunities for learners as Tenwek High receives new buses
He warned that unless urgent action is taken, more children risk destroying their futures and more schools could be affected by destructive incidents.
“Let us protect our children. A sober parent raises a sober child, and a sober child builds a sober nation,” he said.
By Enock Okong’o
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
>>> Click here to stay ahead with the latest national news.
