Ghana’s emergency care system has received a major boost with the graduation of 2,000 Community Medical First Responders (CMFRs) under the joint programme of the National Ambulance Service (NAS) and the Youth Employment Agency (YEA). The passing-out ceremonies were held on Wednesday, 10th September 2025, across five training centres nationwide.
At the Paramedic and Emergency Care Training School (PECTS) in Nkenkaasu, 304 trainees successfully graduated in a colourful ceremony graced by government officials, traditional leaders, and representatives from security agencies. Simultaneous ceremonies were also held at Assin Fosu, Tepa, Ezinlibo, and Asutuare, culminating in the nationwide total of 2,000 graduates.
The newly trained CMFRs have acquired skills in:
• Basic Life Support (BLS)
• Trauma Management
• Disaster Preparedness
• Community Health Interventions
Addressing the ceremony at Nkenkaasu, NAS Ag. Chief Executive Officer, Dr. George Kojo Owusu, described the event as a “historic milestone” in the evolution of Ghana’s pre-hospital emergency care system. He noted that the CMFR initiative, which falls under the Reset Ghana Agenda of H.E. John Dramani Mahama, seeks to train a total of 6,000 young people nationwide to serve as the first link in the emergency response chain.
The Chief Executive Officer of YEA, Mr. Malik Basintale, who served as Reviewing Officer, assured the graduates of prompt monthly salaries. He also announced that the first cohort will undertake attachments at ambulance stations while awaiting the passing out of the remaining 4,000 recruits. He emphasized that the programme will not only strengthen emergency response but also help reduce prank calls to NAS and enhance public confidence in the Service.
The passing-out parade featured a simulation exercise in which trainees demonstrated their ability to respond to a road traffic crash involving multiple casualties. Their swift and coordinated response won high praise from dignitaries and stakeholders in attendance.
With this milestone, Ghana has established a pioneering network of trained first responders positioned to provide immediate assistance in emergencies, ensuring that communities across the country are better prepared and supported in times of crisis.
