Title: Scrutinizing the determinants of Drug Abuse on Students' behavior in Secondary Schools in Olasiti Arusha City, Tanzania
Authors: Joseph Lubega, Mark Kiiza, Lwanga Carlos, MGHWIRA, Daniel Elisha
Volume: 9
Issue: 9
Pages: 90-107
Publication Date: 2025/09/28
Abstract:
Over the decades there has been an increasing concern on the impact of drug abuse on students' discipline in Secondary schools within Olasiti Arusha City Tanzania. The article focused on four objectives: identifying forms of students' indiscipline, determining types of drugs abused, examining how drug abuse influences the behaviour, and exploring strategies to mitigate drug abuse. Utilizing a cross-sectional survey and case study design, the research incorporated both quantitative and qualitative methods. The sample included 259 respondents, yielding a response rate of 93.5%. Key findings showed that disorderliness, noisiness, and bullying were prevalent forms of the behaviour, with alcohol being the most commonly abused drug. Drug abuse significantly affected students' concentration and interest in school activities. Strategies to address the issue include instituting comprehensive alcohol education through mass media campaigns to raise awareness and prevent drug involvement among youths. The study concluded that drug abuse negatively impacted students' the behaviour and emphasized the need for collective action from all stakeholders. Recommendations include increasing the number of teachers for counselling services, implementing preventive measures to control drug access in schools, and enhancing drug education programs. Collaboration between head teachers, parents, and other stakeholders is crucial for effective the behaviour enforcement and drug abuse reduction. Schools should conduct regular drug education programs facilitated by guidance counsellors and supported by the government and parents.