Alberton High School hosts blood donation drive
Alberton High School marked its achievement as top performing school by hosting blood donation drive with learners and staff coming together to save lives
Alberton High School held a blood donation drive on May 4 at the school’s Rec Centre, where learners and staff came together to help save lives.
The event, organised in partnership with the South African National Blood Service, also marked a proud moment for the school as it was recognised as the top-achieving school in the Egoli Zone in the #LifeGivers network challenge.
Alberton High is known for consistently meeting, and often exceeding, this target, which is why SANBS continues to return to the school regularly.
A total of 113 donors donated blood, and 100 units were collected.
Donor educator Lorainn Malapisane said blood donation is very important, especially in hospitals where patients often need urgent transfusions after accidents or serious illnesses. She also said that one donation can help save up to three lives.
Malapisane also highlighted the role of the peer committee, saying it helps educate other learners and makes them feel more comfortable about donating. This support system plays a big role in the school’s success.
The school’s peer committee also received a certificate in recognition of their service to the community through the blood donor peer promotion project.
“I donated because I am O negative and it’s a universal donor; my blood can be given to anyone. Donating at school makes it easy and it encourages learners to give back to the community,” said Oscar Van Platen, the teacher.
Mark Hydes, chairperson of the donor committee, praised the strong turnout.
“It is inspiring to see young people getting involved. Encouraging the youth to donate blood is important for the future,” he said.
Learners also took part in a fingerprint activity, where each donor left a mark on a poster to show their contribution.
“I decided to donate because I heard that people are dying when they don’t get enough blood. I wanted to help those who need it,” said Zandile Sodlulashe, one of the learners who donated.
Learners aged 16 and older were encouraged to donate, with reminders to eat a healthy meal before donating and to bring their ID or birth certificate.
