The Research and Consultancy Centre (RCC) of the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), in collaboration with the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), has presented findings from a baseline study aimed at supporting evidence-based responses to youth substance use in the La Nkwantanang-Madina Municipality. The presentation, held on Wednesday, 10 June 2026, brought together relevant stakeholders to reflect on the study’s findings and their implications for prevention, counselling, referral and community-level intervention.
The study was led by Dr Salifu Adam and Prof. Alexander D.K. Preko of UPSA-RCC, with support from the La Nkwantanang-Madina Municipal Command of NACOC. It examined key issues relating to awareness, prevalence, risk factors, relapse and support needs among young people aged 15 to 35 years within the municipality.
Findings from the study point to the need for strengthened public education, early prevention mechanisms, peer-refusal skills, structured referral pathways and accessible counselling support for young people. The report also highlights the importance of targeted interventions for vulnerable groups, particularly in communities where social and environmental conditions may heighten exposure to substance use.
The collaboration between UPSA-RCC and NACOC reflects the University’s commitment to applying academic research to real-world societal challenges. By generating context-specific evidence, the study provides a useful basis for policy dialogue, institutional planning and coordinated community action aimed at promoting youth well-being.
UPSA-RCC noted that the findings should not be seen merely as data, but as a practical tool for guiding prevention strategies, strengthening stakeholder coordination and improving support systems for young people who may be at risk or in need of care.
The Centre reaffirmed its commitment to research that advances policy, supports community development and deepens partnerships between academia, public institutions and local communities.
Through initiatives of this nature, UPSA continues to demonstrate its mandate of combining scholarship with professionalism while contributing meaningfully to national development and social impact.
