Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) joined other institutions in commemorating the annual Substance Abuse Prevention Week spearheaded by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA). The initiative aimed at promoting a drug-free and healthy academic environment within institutions of higher learning.
The week-long campaign held from February 9-13, 2026, brought together students, faculty, health professionals, and community stakeholders to raise awareness about the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse, particularly among young people. Through sensitization forums and engagement sessions, participants examined the social, academic, and health-related consequences of substance misuse.
Delivering the keynote address as Chief Guest, Mr. Bernard Odhiambo Owino, the Livelihoods and Resilience Advisor at World Vision, underscored the growing concern of alcohol and drug misuse among university students.
He highlighted the risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption, prescription medication misuse, and illicit drug use, noting their adverse effects on academic performance, mental health, and long-term career prospects.
“Substance abuse is not just a personal struggle; it is a societal issue that affects families, institutions, and the nation at large. Universities are places of opportunity and transformation. Protecting that opportunity begins with informed choices,” Mr. Odhiambo stated.
JKUAT’s Alcohol and Drug Abuse (ADA) Prevention Committee Vice Chairman and University Counsellor, Mr. Joseph Mwangi, delivered a compelling presentation, titled Strengthening Productivity and Wellbeing Through ADA Prevention. He observed that while universities are centers of innovation and academic growth, they are also environments where staff and students may face social pressures that increase vulnerability to substance use and abuse.
“Substance abuse remains one of the greatest threats to staff and student success and wellbeing. It affects academic performance, mental health, relationships, and future career prospects. Prevention must therefore be our shared responsibility,” Mr. Mwangi said.
He further emphasized the importance of sustained awareness, education, and open dialogue in addressing addiction and mental health challenges, noting that reducing stigma is critical to effective prevention. Mr. Mwangi encouraged students to seek support early and fully utilize the counselling and support services available within the University.
The event underscored that combating substance abuse requires sustained engagement, strong partnerships, and collective responsibility. Through its active participation in Substance Abuse Prevention Week, JKUAT reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the health, safety, and well-being of its staff and students.
