Merewest community trained in first aid, disaster management and self-defence

The Merewest Community Foundation hosted a special training for community members and leaders to be equipped with necessary skills.

June 12, 2025

Dillon Pillay 1 minute read

Yusuf Vawda, sister Allison Andrews from Mediskills Healthcare Academy, Ranjan Deonath and Premilla Deonath re-enact how to treat emergency scenarios. Photos: Dillon Pillay.

THE Merewest Community Foundation (MCF) held a comprehensive training day on May 31 at Ganges Secondary School to teach the community and its leaders first aid, disaster management and self-defence. The session, facilitated by MCF chairperson Premilla Deonath, was attended by more than 46 community leaders for practical, hands-on emergency preparedness training.

Also read: Merewest Community Foundation acknowledges community heroes

Deonath said that the initiative was aimed at equipping leaders with essential lifesaving skills. “It was a realistic, hands-on simulation of emergencies that can happen at any time and affect any one of us,” said Deonath.

The training was directed at first responders, members of Community Policing Forums, and leaders, providing them with the knowledge and confidence to respond rapidly and efficiently to medical, environmental, or personal emergencies.

Kiran Inderjeeth practises CPR on the dummy.

Deonath said the day covered a variety of topics. “We covered all aspects where lives are at risk. First aid protocols in stroke cases, accidents, poisoning, suicide, cardiopulmonary resuscitation and snake bites,” said Deonath.

Sister Allison from Mediskills Academy presented first aid training, while disaster management was co-facilitated by Deonath.

Support for the event came from the community police forum, community in blue, NPOs, emergency services and volunteers, each contributing to making the day a success.

Karishmee Heraiall practises tying a sling on Mediskills Healthcare Academy’s Euricka Ogle.

“It well exceeded our expectations. Not only was it empowering and informative, but it also brought cohesion right across all areas of community safety. Participants sat for a test after the course and will receive formal accreditation. We are working towards building a more resilient community,” said Deonath.

The MCF encourages the community to register for its courses and events which are open to anyone and are free of charge. Deonath added that whatever they do is borne out of passion and love for the community.

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