The Chairman of GCTU Council, Ing. Divine D. K. Kpetigo, has highlighted the need for health engagement sessions for staff and students to be held once every semester to enhance health welfare.
Ing. Kpetigo made this call during his address at a Wellness, Health and Empowerment Summit 2026, organized by the GCTU Local NUGS, in collaboration with the Office of the Dean of Students on July 9, 2026 at the Silicon Valley Auditorium.
Speaking as the Guest of Honour, he urged students to avoid harmful substances, use technology responsibly, build meaningful networks, develop strong personal brands and pursue excellence, stressing that Ghana’s future depends on a generation that is healthy in mind and strong in character.
Representatives from the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) including the Head of the Project Communication Support Unit, Mr. Samuel Fahren Otoo and the Head of the Tobacco Control Compliance Unit, Ms. Reheal Asantewaa Darko, educated participants on adverse drug reactions, substandard and falsified medicines, and how to identify and report them. They encouraged participants to download the Med Safety App to report adverse drug reactions and to dispose of unwanted medications properly.
The speakers also highlighted the dangers of substance abuse, noting its link to mental health challenges and an increased risk of suicide. They called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders and sustained public education, including regular school outreach programmes, to combat substance abuse.
During his presentation, the National President of the Health Students Association of Ghana (NAHSAG), Mr. Ahmed Yakubu, encouraged participants to educate their peers on health issues and advocate for regular health screening. He noted that many people silently battle health challenges without seeking help and called for the review of the health education curriculum to include first aid training.
Participants also benefited from an eye health session led by an optometrist from Godly Favoured Eye Care Centre, Dr. Prince Kelvin Fianu, who emphasized that regular eye examinations can help detect systemic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. He encouraged participants to visit an eye clinic at least once every year for routine checkups.
