The National Ambulance Service (NAS), in partnership with the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), has officially commenced the training of 6,000 Community Medical First Responders (CMFRs) at the Paramedic and Emergency Care Training School (PECTS), Nkenkaasu in the Ashanti Region. This marks a historic milestone in strengthening Ghana’s emergency medical response system.
The first cohort of 2,000 trainees has already begun training, with two additional batches scheduled in the coming weeks to complete the nationwide intake. Once deployed, these responders will serve as the first line of support in emergencies, providing critical care before the arrival of ambulances.
The launch ceremony was graced by the Acting Chief Executive Officer of NAS, Dr. (Med) George Kojo Owusu, who commended the President, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, for his instrumental role in making the initiative a reality. He emphasized that the training programme represents a bold step towards enhancing pre-hospital care while creating meaningful employment for the youth.
Also in attendance were the Acting Deputy CEO of NAS, Dr. Patrick Inkoom-Colbelson, and the Deputy CEO of YEA, Mr. Abubakari Saana Abdul-Kudus, who expressed his satisfaction with the programme’s progress. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the successful roll-out and sustainability of the initiative.
Speaking at the event, NAS leadership highlighted that the Community Medical First Responders will play a vital role in bridging the gap between the onset of an emergency and the arrival of ambulance services — ultimately saving lives in homes, workplaces, and communities across Ghana.
This partnership between NAS and YEA reflects a shared vision of strengthening national emergency healthcare systems while empowering Ghana’s youth with critical, employable skills.
