Busaosowo Foundation, a faith-based and youth-led non-profit organisation, has launched its latest publication, entitled, ‘Engage Not Disrupt: A Young Person’s Guide to Building Resistance Against Drug Abuse.’
The book is part of the foundation’s ongoing efforts to equip young people with essential life skills, social competence, and vocational abilities, enabling them to tackle everyday challenges without resorting to drugs or violence.
The official unveiling of the book took place at the University of Nigeria Secondary School, Nsukka, on Wednesday, July 19, during the foundation’s school tour in Nsukka LGA, Enugu State.
During the launch event, the Executive Director of Busaosowo Foundation, Busaosowo Bisong, emphasized the profound impact of drug abuse on the developing brain of young individuals.
Highlighting that full brain development occurs around the ages of 20 to 25, Bisong stressed the dangers of introducing drugs during this crucial stage as it can disrupt proper hippocampus development.
Students present at the event expressed their commitment not only to steer clear of drugs but also to utilise the knowledge from the book to engage their peers in constructive ways.
As part of the school tour, a one-day capacity-building workshop was organised for the school’s teachers.
Principal of the University of Nigeria Secondary School, Nsukka, Mr Adama Uche, expressed his gratitude to Busaosowo Foundation for implementing the initiative to protect young people from drug abuse.
Uche also encouraged teachers to be observant and use the knowledge gained from the book to facilitate meaningful conversations with their students.
The book developed as part of the ‘Engage Not Disrupt’ project with support from Projects for Peace USA, provides information about drug abuse and equips young people with decision-making skills, techniques to say no, ways to overcome peer pressure, address low self-esteem and how to cope with challenging family environments.
The book follows the success of the Drug Abuse Prevention Trainers’ Booklet released in 2022 by the foundation, which is regarded as the first local content guide for drug abuse prevention in Nigeria designed for parents and teachers.
The ‘Engage Not Disrupt’ book is available at no cost to young people, while schools, youth groups, and religious institutions can request free copies by reaching out to the foundation.
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