Najran, June 5: A significant community health awareness initiative was successfully organized by Najran Tamil Mandramin association with the Indian Doctors Medical Forum (IDMF) and Al Ghad Applied Medical Science College. The “FIRST 8” Life Saving and Health Awareness Workshop was held on June 5, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., drawing enthusiastic participation from members of the Indian community in Najran.
The specialized program, developed by the Saudi Red Crescent Authority (SRCA), is designed to provide introductory first-aid training to the public. The title “FIRST 8” highlights the importance of the first few seconds or minutes during a medical emergency, when prompt intervention by bystanders can play a crucial role in saving lives.
The event commenced with the arrival of distinguished guests, followed by the national anthem and an invocation. Er. Faisal Ibrahim welcomed the gathering and emphasized the importance of community preparedness in handling medical emergencies. The workshop was officially inaugurated by JTS Er. Kajamohideen Meeran, President of the Saudi Arabia Tamil Sangam’s Federation, who joined virtually and addressed the participants.
Dr. Izhar Ahmad Ansari, Course Coordinator for FIRST 8, provided an overview of the program and highlighted its practical relevance in everyday life. The training session was subsequently led by Dr. Abdul Raof Mohammed of IDMF–Najran, who conducted an intensive hands-on workshop focusing on essential life-saving techniques.
The curriculum covered five critical areas: rapid cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for sudden cardiac arrest, choking response techniques for adults, children and infants, methods to control severe bleeding, operation of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), and effective communication with emergency services through the 997 hotline.
The four-hour practical training program was offered free of charge, enabling participants to gain valuable emergency response skills. Upon successful completion of the workshop, 28 participants were awarded official certificates issued by the Saudi Red Crescent Authority.
The program was smoothly coordinated by Dr. Joyce Elina Rani, who served as the Master of Ceremonies. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mrs. Alageswari Kumar, who expressed appreciation to the organizers, partnering institutions, trainers and participants for contributing to the success of the initiative.
The workshop underscored the importance of community-based health education and reflected the commitment of Najran Tamil Mandram and its partners toward promoting public health awareness and emergency preparedness among expatriate communities in the Kingdom.
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