Ensure provision of adequate first aid at schools

 Dear Editor,

First aid is defined as the immediate care given to an injured or suddenly ill person, aiming to preserve life, prevent further harm, and promote re­covery until professional medical help arrives.

It is also considered as an essential element at every or­ganisation and institution during emergency situations. In Ghana, first aid is also considered a legal requirement, emphasising the need for adequate supplies and trained personnel to handle emer­gencies.

Additionally, schools in Ghana are expected to have first aid boxes and individuals trained in first aid to address injuries and illness that may occur.

However, there have been a number of reported cases of lack of first aid kits, including first aid boxes, in some educational insti­tutions in the country.

As a concerned citizen, I find such reports very disturbing be­cause the lack of first aid kits at our education institutions could lead to loss of lives.

At schools, especially at the basic level, it is easy for injuries to be recorded due to the playful nature of pupils, where they are often seen running up and down and engaging in some physical activities.

It is for this reason that edu­cation institutions in the country need to take the provision of first aid kits and facilities seriously.

The various stakeholders, in­cluding the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service, need to put in measures to ensure that education institutions adhere to this directive.

Fred, Dansoman