A life-saving initiative offering first aid training has been rolled out in both government and private schools across Charmadi and Neriya. Spearheaded by Dr. Murali Krishna Irwathraya, Medical Director of Shri Krishna Hospital, the programme is supported by the Emergency Department of KMC Hospital and aims to equip rural school children with essential emergency response skills.
Dr. Irwathraya launched this initiative after observing a rise in sudden heart attacks, even in remote areas. “Saving lives isn’t just a doctor’s duty—anyone with basic knowledge and presence of mind can help,” he stated. Conducted even on Sundays, the sessions aim to debunk superstitions and empower students with practical knowledge.
Students are trained to handle a broad spectrum of emergencies, such as heart attacks, strokes, road mishaps, electrocution, burns, drowning, lightning strikes, and animal bites. The sessions also teach Basic Life Support (BLS) techniques like CPR, with guidance on how to adjust these skills to suit real-life conditions.
Since its launch in July, six training camps have been completed in schools like St. Savio School (Bendrala), Govt High School (Kakkinje), Govt Primary School (Thotathady), St. Thomas High School (Gandibagilu), Karunya English Medium School (Kakkinje), and Govt Primary School (Bayalu). More schools are being added to the training calendar.
Dr. Murali emphasized that many children are familiar with CPR but often lack the confidence or clarity to apply it correctly. With paramedics assisting, students receive realistic, hands-on training. The goal is to eventually expand this vital initiative beyond Charmadi.