As learners in Eswatini prepare for their Form III and Form V examinations, concerns are rising about the choices they make to stay alert and focused. Regina Ssemwogerere, Communications Officer of the Association of Students Against Drug Abuse and Trafficking (SADAT), has urged parents and schools to address the issue. With exam pressure mounting, some learners may be tempted to turn to tobacco and nicotine products, which can pose serious health risks.
According to Ssemwogerere, nicotine is an addictive substance that can create additional challenges for young people. While some learners may believe that smoking cigarettes, using vapes, or consuming other nicotine products will help them stay awake and concentrate better, these products can lead to addiction and other health problems. The concern extends beyond traditional cigarettes to include vapes, flavoured nicotine products, and other emerging products that may appeal to young people due to their flavours, designs, and marketing.
Parents, teachers, and school authorities play a crucial role in guiding learners during this period. Rather than focusing solely on academic performance, they should encourage learners to adopt healthy habits, such as getting enough sleep, eating balanced meals, drinking enough water, and taking short breaks while studying. Schools should also provide support and guidance to learners who feel overwhelmed by exam pressure or have already started using tobacco and nicotine products.
Ssemwogerere emphasizes that academic success should never come at the expense of learners' health. Instead of relying on addictive substances, learners should be encouraged to build effective study habits and seek support when struggling. By working together, it is possible to protect learners from tobacco and nicotine addiction and create school environments that promote academic excellence without compromising well-being.
The Association of Students Against Drug Abuse and Trafficking (SADAT) is actively involved in addressing the issue. As a Communications Officer, Ssemwogerere is part of a team that aims to raise awareness about the risks associated with tobacco and nicotine use among learners. By engaging with parents, schools, and learners, SADAT hopes to prevent the misuse of these substances and promote healthy lifestyles.
The problem is not unique to Eswatini, but it is essential to address it in the local context. By understanding the specific challenges faced by learners in Eswatini, stakeholders can develop targeted strategies to mitigate the risks. This includes providing learners with accurate information about the dangers of tobacco and nicotine products and encouraging them to make informed choices.
Ultimately, the goal is to protect the future of Eswatini's young people. By working together, parents, schools, and learners can create a supportive environment that promotes academic success without compromising health. Learners should be encouraged to prioritize their well-being and seek help when needed, rather than turning to addictive substances to cope with exam pressure.
Key points
- Learners in Eswatini are at risk of turning to tobacco and nicotine products due to exam pressure.
