Budgam, Aug. 6: In a significant step towards enhancing emergency preparedness in educational institutions, the Private Schools Association Jammu and Kashmir (PSAJK) has launched a Basic Life Support (BLS) training programme for school drivers and helpers across the Union Territory. The initiative began with a pilot programme in Budgam district.
The training programme was organised by PSAJK in collaboration with the Civil Defence and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), with participants receiving practical instruction in life-saving techniques and emergency response.
Speaking to reporters on the occasion, Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Athar Aamir Khan, lauded the initiative, describing it as an important step towards strengthening safety measures in schools.
“The Basic Life Support training programme initiated by the Private Schools Association for school drivers and helpers is a commendable initiative. The Civil Defence and SDRF have provided professional training, equipping participants with essential skills to respond effectively during emergencies,” he said.
The Deputy Commissioner said that the district administration has already been conducting BLS training for Anganwadi workers, ASHA workers, college and school teachers, and students. He added that the programme would be expanded in a phased manner to cover more institutions and stakeholders across Budgam district.
President of the Private Schools Association Jammu and Kashmir, Dr Baba Nazrul Islam, said the association aims to extend the BLS training programme to all private schools across Jammu and Kashmir.
“We have selected Budgam as the pilot district for this initiative. The training will be conducted in all educational zones of the district, covering school drivers, helpers, and sports teachers. These frontline staff members will be equipped with Basic Life Support skills so that they can respond effectively during medical emergencies,” Dr Islam said.
He further said that, following the successful completion of the Budgam district, the programme would be rolled out across all districts of Jammu and Kashmir in a phased manner.
“Our objective is to ensure that drivers, helpers, and sports teachers in every private school are trained in life-saving techniques. Their preparedness can make a crucial difference during emergencies and help save lives until professional medical assistance arrives,” he added.
