Ugandan Schools Heighten Scrutiny on Snacks Amid Drug Smuggling Fears

Schools in Uganda are intensifying their checks on food and beverages brought by students, as a growing worry emerges about the ingenious ways learners are attempting to smuggle drugs into educational facilities. While some institutions cite promoting equality and ensuring food quality as the official reasons for these restrictions, others openly acknowledge the persistent challenge of drug abuse among students.

Students themselves have reportedly become adept at disguising drugs within a variety of items. Allegations suggest that some students are baking drugs, such as marijuana, directly into homemade edibles like cakes and “daddies.” Other methods include substituting alcoholic drinks with mineral water, complete with counterfeit seals, or concealing substances within the pages of notebooks. Sports equipment, like football shoes, and even personal belongings packed at the start of term, such as branded sugar and powdered milk, are reportedly being used as hiding places. Day scholars and the areas surrounding school compounds are also being exploited to bypass security measures.

Headteachers offer varied perspectives on the issue. Some, like Mr. Ephraim Kaluganda of Light College Katikamu SS, emphasize the need to control food sources for safety and to mitigate socio-economic disparities among students. Conversely, Mr. David Lutaaya of Northwood High School suggests that while drug concealment is possible, blanket bans on snacks might be an overreaction, potentially serving as a way for schools to boost their own catering businesses. He advocates for enhanced security, counseling, and teacher training instead.

The Ministry of Education and Sports recognizes the complexity of the problem, especially in the large number of boarding schools. Permanent Secretary Ms. Kedrace Turyagyenda noted the difficulty in detecting drugs hidden in processed foods and stressed the necessity of a societal effort involving parents and communities. The National Private Education Institutions Association (NPEIA) also calls for robust health, safety, and security committees, alongside student involvement in identifying suspicious behaviors, viewing drug abuse as both a disciplinary and health issue.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/education/schools-crack-down-on-drug-laced-snacks-5594392