St John Ambulance, a renowned humanitarian organisation, has marked its 88th anniversary with health screening for some pupils in parts of Accra last Tuesday.
The celebration on the theme, "Building a Healthier Tomorrow", saw St John Ambulance collaborate with the Ghana Optometric Association to provide vital healthcare services to pupils.
Team
A team of medical professionals from St John and the Ghana Optometric Association screened 198 pupils from four basic schools in the James Town cluster, including Independence Avenue 1 and 2 Basic Schools and Bishop Mixed Primary School.
The screening revealed that five pupils had severe eye conditions and were provided with medication, while two pupils were given free glasses to correct their vision.
In addition to the eye screening, 223 individuals received training on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), a lifesaving technique that can help restore blood circulation and breathing in emergencies.
The CEO of St John Ambulance, Dr Anthony K. Apedzi, in an interview, expressed gratitude to staff and volunteers for their dedication to duty, which had enabled the organisation to reach this milestone.
He paid tribute to the organisation's forerunners for their sacrifices and called on organisations and trade unions to invest in first aid training for their staff and members.
Dr Apedzi emphasised that first aid training can guarantee a safer work environment and boost confidence in the workplace.
He also urged the Auditor General to include first aid training and equipment in the checklist of things to be audited in organisations, citing Section 28 of the Offices, Factories and Industries Act (1970), Act 328.
Commitment to Community Service
The Head of Voluntary Service Department at St John Ambulance, Bridget Boakye-Ansah, also thanked the leadership of the cluster of schools for their participation in the exercise.
She indicated that similar events were being held nationwide by St John staff and volunteers, demonstrating the organisation's commitment to building a healthier tomorrow for all.
She added that the celebration marked a significant milestone in St John Ambulance's history, highlighting its dedication to providing lifesaving services and promoting health and well-being in communities across Ghana.
