NASH’s annual conference fights against drug and substance abuse

By Victor Sibanda

The National Association of Secondary Heads (NASH) is currently holding its annual conference spanning from July 2nd to 5th, in Victoria Falls. Focused on the theme “Fight against Drug and Substance Abuse,” the conference coincides with Zimbabwe’s concerted efforts to tackle the escalating challenges posed by drug abuse in the country.

The Zimbabwe Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024-2030) which was recently launched by President Emmerson Mnangagwa aims to create a healthy and secure nation free from illicit drugs and substances over the next six years.

NASH president Mr Arthur Maphosa said that school heads and teachers need to be courageous in order to fight against drug and substance abuse. He also said that teachers’ work is not just for human recognition, but to honor God.

Mr Maphosa implored school heads and teachers to be resilient from public rebuke and to continue to fight for better salaries and conditions. He also urged schools to use proper channels to lobby Government. NASH is elated that sporting activities have resumed after Covid-19. Mr Maphosa said that NASH is indebted to the support of partners and stakeholders.

Leaders emphasized the crucial role parents must play alongside schools in tackling this issue head-on.
“Schools are embedded within communities,” stressed Nkayi head, Muster Masuka. “Therefore, it’s imperative that parents and stakeholders take a proactive approach to guide children back on the right path. The current situation in our schools is unacceptable, and we must act swiftly to stop it.”

Shamiso Mike Moyo, a resident of Chamabondo, echoed these concerns, placing some of the blame on parents and the broader community for failing to support educators in addressing student behavior. “We, as parents, need to take responsibility,” he asserted. “These drug abuse tendencies often manifest at home, yet we turn a blind eye. We can’t expect teachers to fully assume the parental role. Only through united efforts with teachers can we truly eradicate drug abuse in our schools.”

This emphasis on collaboration highlights the growing concern surrounding drug use among Zimbabwean youth. The conference aimed to foster a sense of shared responsibility between parents, schools, and communities in addressing this critical issue.