A National Youth Service Corps member serving in Bayelsa State, Miss Blessing Nwokeoma (Batch Number BY/24C/2565), has equipped over 40 senior secondary school students in Yenagoa with lifesaving first aid knowledge.
The training, held on Tuesday at Government Secondary School, Ovom, formed part of her Community Development Service (CDS) project. It was carried out in collaboration with the Nigerian Red Cross Society (Bayelsa State Branch) and the Nigeria Network of NGOs.
With the theme, “Empowering Teens with Lifesaving Skills,” the programme featured sessions on basic first aid, emergency handling, and practical demonstrations conducted by certified Red Cross trainers.
Explaining her motivation, Nwokeoma said: “As part of my commitment to community service, I decided to train the students in lifesaving skills because many of them had no idea what first aid really means. The idea is not only to help them respond to emergencies within their school, but also in their homes and neighbourhoods. We want to create young people who can confidently handle crises until professional help arrives.”
She noted that participants were also awarded certificates to validate their new skills, adding that the project aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 3, 4, and 17 — good health and well-being, quality education, and partnerships.
The initiative drew commendation from stakeholders. Joining virtually, the Executive Director of the Nigeria Network of NGOs, Oyebisi B. Oluseyi, said: “I am particularly thrilled that Blessing is doing this as part of her CDS. It reinforces the value of active citizenship. Giving teenagers life-saving skills strengthens our communities and adds to the pool of young first aiders. Organising this kind of programme takes grit, planning and determination. She deserves to be applauded.”
Similarly, the Secretary of NRCS, Bayelsa State Branch, Mr. Job Emmanuel, stressed the importance of training youths early. “What Miss Blessing is doing is very significant. These students are the next generation of first aiders who will give care to humanity. It’s better to catch them young so they grow up with the culture of serving society in emergencies.”
Vice Principal (Administration) of the host school, Mrs. Jessy Ovuru, expressed delight at being chosen: “We feel honoured. Not every school gets this kind of training opportunity. It shows our students are being recognised. We pray for more grace for Miss Blessing to keep shining.”
The students themselves shared their excitement. Master Michael Okori called it “a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” while Miss Samuel Princess said she learnt the difference between “patient” and “casualty” and was grateful for the rare experience.
The NRCS Training Officer, Mr. Frank Lucky, led the demonstrations, guiding students through simulated emergencies such as fainting, choking, and bleeding. The programme concluded with certificate presentations, earning applause from parents, teachers, and community members.
Mrs. Florence Ebi, a parent, remarked: “This is the kind of service we expect from NYSC members — projects that leave footprints. Blessing has set an example that others should emulate.”
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