Karatina University through the Substance Use and Crisis Response Centre(SUCREC successfully hosted a Stakeholders’ Engagement Workshop on Drug Use Prevention and Management among Youth and Children on 13th March 2026 at its Main Campus. The workshop, held under the theme “Youth Against Drugs: Time to Act is Now,” brought together key stakeholders from government agencies, education institutions, healthcare, and the community to address the growing challenge of substance use among young people.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor ARSA, Prof. Franklin Wabwoba addressing the audience during the drug prevention workshop.
The engagement provided a platform for participants to examine emerging trends in drug and substance use affecting youth and children in Kenya and the wider East African region. Experts from National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) and rehabilitation institutions led discussions on the evolving nature of drug use, highlighting new substances, changing patterns of abuse, and the increasing role of technology in addiction.
Participants keenly following through the presentations during the workshop
In his opening remarks, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic, Research and Student Affairs) underscored the University’s commitment to community engagement and its role in addressing societal challenges through research, partnerships, and outreach initiatives. The workshop objectives focused on enhancing awareness, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, and developing practical strategies for prevention and management.
A key highlight of the programme was the breakout sessions, which allowed for targeted discussions among different stakeholder groups. Students engaged in conversations on the biopsychosocial effects of drug use, while teachers, parents, and community leaders explored similar issues affecting children. These sessions enabled participants to share experiences, identify risk factors, and propose context-specific interventions.
A Section of the parents and students during the workshop
The plenary discussions further emphasized the critical role of stakeholders in combating drug use. Participants collectively identified the need for strengthened partnerships between educational institutions, families, government agencies, and community organizations. There was a strong consensus on the importance of early intervention, continuous awareness campaigns, and the integration of prevention programmes within school systems.
Student presentations provided valuable insights into peer perspectives on drug use, while a session on translating social challenges into policy briefs equipped participants with tools to influence policy and advocacy efforts effectively
The workshop concluded with a closing ceremony led by the University Management, during which participants reaffirmed their commitment to collaborative action in addressing drug use among youth and children. The event marks a significant step in Karatina University ongoing efforts to promote a drug-free society and support the well-being and future of young people through informed, collective action.