JEDDAH: The Indian Doctors Medical Forum (IDMF), in collaboration with the Consulate General of India and the International Indian School, Jeddah (IISJ), organized a Basic Life Support (BLS) training program for high school students, equipping young learners with essential skills to respond calmly and effectively during medical emergencies.
The program was inaugurated by Chief Guest H.E. Consul General of India Shri Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, whose presence underscored the importance of promoting health awareness, emergency preparedness and community responsibility among the younger generation.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Ashfaq Manyar, President, IDMF, highlighted the critical importance of timely intervention during medical emergencies. He noted that the period before professional medical assistance arrives can often be decisive and that basic knowledge, presence of mind and prompt action can potentially save lives.
Dr. Manyar said that BLS training goes beyond medical knowledge, helping young people develop confidence, responsibility and a willingness to assist others in times of need.
Dr. Mohammed Abdul Saleem, General Secretary, IDMF, extended his support and guidance for the successful conduct of the program and played an active role in coordinating the proceedings. The dedicated efforts of the IDMF team and trained BLS instructors contributed to the smooth and effective delivery of the initiative.
Addressing the students, Consul General Shri Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri commended IDMF and IISJ for introducing young students to essential emergency-response skills. He emphasized the importance of preparedness, awareness and composure when faced with situations where every moment can matter.
He encouraged the students to take the training seriously and stressed that the skills acquired could prove valuable not only within the school environment but also in the wider community.
A live demonstration by trained BLS instructors provided students with a practical understanding of the basic procedures involved in responding to a medical emergency. This was followed by an extensive hands-on training session designed to translate the lessons into practical skills.
The students were divided into groups of 20, with a trained instructor assigned to each group. Twelve groups underwent practical training simultaneously, allowing students to receive close guidance and actively participate in the exercises. The first batch included students from the Girls’ Section, enabling them to complete the training before returning to their section.
The interactive format generated enthusiastic participation from the students, giving them an opportunity to practice the techniques under the supervision of trained instructors. The initiative sought to ensure that the students gained not only an understanding of BLS but also the confidence to respond responsibly in an emergency.
Certificates of Participation were also presented to the BLS instructors in recognition of their expertise and contribution to the program.
The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Mohammed Imran, Principal, International Indian School, Jeddah, who expressed appreciation to the Consul General, IDMF leadership, instructors, school management, teachers and students for their collective efforts in making the initiative a success.
The BLS program marked a meaningful collaboration between the medical community, the Indian diplomatic mission and the school, highlighting the importance of equipping young people with practical life-saving skills.
By taking emergency-response education beyond the classroom, the initiative encouraged students to become more aware, confident and socially responsible—demonstrating how education can play an important role in preparing young people not only for academic success, but also to respond with compassion and competence when lives may be at stake.
