Study Finds Lecturers Among Leading Drug Suppliers in Universities.
A report by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has exposed the escalating issue of drug and substance abuse in Kenyan universities. Data was gathered from 15,678 respondents across 17 public and private universities, revealing that nearly half of university students have used drugs at some point.
The primary source of drugs among students is friends, contributing to 66.4% of cases, followed by canteens, bars, and nearby premises at 59.3%. Fellow students account for 56% of drug distribution, while online platforms, including websites and social media, make up 39.4% of access points.
Lecturers and non-teaching staff have also been linked to drug supply, with 7% of students obtaining drugs from teaching personnel and 11.4% from non-teaching staff.
Some parents have been found to store drugs at home, unknowingly making them accessible to their children or even consuming drugs with them. These revelations raise serious concerns about the ethical responsibilities of those entrusted with students’ well-being.
Several key factors contribute to drug use among university students. The likelihood of substance abuse increases when influenced by a close associate, such as a partner or role model who engages in drug use.
Additional factors include difficulty managing stress, unresolved childhood trauma, experiences of gender-based violence, bereavement, and lack of involvement in religious or structured social activities. Furthermore, gambling and betting have been identified as risk factors closely associated with increased drug consumption.
The accessibility of substances among students remains a significant issue. Alcohol is the most widely available, with an accessibility rate of 87.3%, followed by cigarettes at 64.4% and shisha at 41.2%.
Among narcotic drugs, smoked cannabis is the most accessible at 61.7%, with cannabis edibles at 47.6%, cocaine at 15.1%, and heroin at 14.3%. The rising popularity of cannabis-infused edibles, including weed cookies, mabuyu, lollipops, and juices, presents an increasing challenge in curbing drug abuse within universities.
The consequences of drug abuse in universities are severe. Substance use has been linked to academic failures, with students missing examinations, skipping continuous assessment tests (CATs), and being absent from classes.
Many also face disciplinary action due to their involvement in drug-related misconduct. These behaviors not only hinder academic success but also negatively impact students’ overall well-being and future prospects.
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In light of these findings, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has committed to immediate intervention, announcing a crackdown on drug abuse in universities.
The government plans to implement stronger policies and enforcement measures to control drug distribution within higher learning institutions. This initiative aims to protect students from the harmful effects of substance abuse and restore discipline in university environments.
Study Finds Lecturers Among Leading Drug Suppliers in Universities.
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