As part of the implementation of AngloGold Ashanti’s integrated health education programme in its operational areas, the company has commenced first aid training for basic schools in Obuasi.
The programme, which is initially targeting public schools in Obuasi, is geared towards promoting habits and values of good hygiene and sanitation including menstrual hygiene management and safety.
First aid is a critical intervention that can prevent death and disabilities by providing timely assistance before professional medical support arrives.
The importance of first aid cannot be overstated – it is a vital skill needed during emergency situations. However, in Ghana, countless lives are lost due to the lack of basic first aid knowledge. Available statistics indicate that over 60 per cent of accident fatalities in Ghana could be prevented with timely first aid intervention.
It is against this background that AngloGold Ashanti has launched a basic first aid training for pupils in basic schools in Obuasi with the goal of changing the narrative.
More than 200 students of the Anyinam Methodist A and B were the first to benefit from the maiden edition of the programme, when safety professionals from the mine’s occupational health and safety department, in a practical session, took them through basic rudiments of first aid training.
The training covered essential skills like assessing a harmful situation and controlling bleeding during injury. Madam Mavis Nana Yaa Kyei, the Social Development and Gender Superintendent of AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine, said the programme was expected to bring health education to the doorsteps of school children in a bid to promote a healthy, physical, psychosocial and conducive learning environment.
It would also promote attendance and academic competence, while preventing illness- related absenteeism. She said first aid was an essential life skill that empowered individuals to act in emergencies hence the need to target children with this vital skill.
“Teaching first aid in schools will not only equip pupils with the ability to manage unexpected situations but also fosters a culture of care and responsibility,” she emphasised.
Source: GNA
