Edito of the Global First Aid Reference Centre Newsletter

My journey in the Movement began upon my retirement from the University of Community Health in 2019. Since 2020, I have dedicated myself to the Myanmar Red Cross Society, undertaking multifaceted responsibilities that encompass legal compliance, policy management, financing, partner relations, and more. Serving as the spokesperson for the Society, I am committed to delivering humanitarian assistance efficiently, especially in times of emergencies.

First Aid Education holds a special place in our endeavors.

This comes considering the unique challenges faced by Myanmar, such as limited medical access in rural areas and frequent natural disasters. The lack of widespread access to training resources poses a significant obstacle. We are diligently working on multiple First Aid projects, including those supported by the ICRC, German Red Cross, Danish Red Cross, and Japanese Red Cross Society.

Looking forward, our collaboration with GFARC aligns seamlessly with the new 2030 Vision for First Aid. This partnership promises to provide invaluable resources, best practices, and technical assistance. It will enhance our capacity to develop and implement training programs, fostering a global network of shared objectives and opportunities.

The role of volunteers in First Aid is indispensable. Red Cross volunteers, equipped with Basic First Aid courses, contribute significantly to community health and disaster response. Their dedication helps build community resilience, especially in areas prone to various risks.

My message to the Movement and our network is clear – First Aid education and response are at the core of our mission. Through tailored programs, collaborative approaches, and integration with healthcare systems, we aim to empower individuals, communities, schools, and workplaces to be proactive in emergency situations.

On a lighter note, I’d like to share an interesting aspect of First Aid that often goes unnoticed – First Aid for pets. Acknowledging the importance of our furry friends, First Aid can be a lifesaver for domestic animals in times of injury, accidents, or illnesses.

In closing, I would like to express the significance of research and development in First Aid programs. In October 2023, I had the privilege of attending the South-East Asia First Aid Network, where the importance of research and development in First Aid programs was underscored.

Research is the bedrock of progress in technology, providing evidence-based practices and essential up-to-date resources for the continuous improvement of our initiatives. Our collective efforts must focus on evidence-based practices, evolving technologies, and methodologies to ensure the effectiveness of First Aid education in real-life situations.