Ghana has achieved another major milestone in strengthening community-based emergency healthcare with the passing out of the second cohort of Community Medical First Responders (CMFRs) at the Ghana Armed Forces Training Centre in Asutuare on Friday, 24th October 2025.
Jointly organised by the National Ambulance Service (NAS) and the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), the ceremony saw 193 trainees graduate, adding to the over 1,765 responders already trained nationwide under this transformative initiative aimed at enhancing pre-hospital emergency care while creating sustainable youth employment opportunities.
Over a rigorous four-week training period that included lectures, physical drills, and real-life simulations under military supervision, trainees were equipped with essential life-saving competencies, including:
In his welcome address, Commanding Officer of the 64 Infantry Regiment, Lt. Col. J. Bamie, commended the trainees for their discipline and dedication throughout the programme.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of NAS CEO, Dr. George Kojo Owusu, DCAEMT Daniel Asare, Regional Administrative Manager for Greater Accra, described the milestone as “a defining moment in Ghana’s journey to strengthen pre-hospital emergency care,” reaffirming the national target of training 6,000 responders under the Reset Ghana Agenda led by H.E. John Dramani Mahama.
Representing YEA, Deputy CEO (Finance & Administration), Ms. Prisca Sedinam Kekeshie, lauded the NAS–YEA partnership as “an investment in national productivity, peace, and purpose,” praising NAS instructors and military trainers for delivering a transformative programme.
Dr. Felicia Birch-Freeman, Regional Medical Coordinator and Supervisor of the YEA–CMFR Training at Asutuare, encouraged the graduates to serve with courage, compassion, and professionalism.
“Every skill you have learnt can mean the difference between life and death. Be confident, be courageous, and act with compassion. You are the beacons of hope for your communities in their most critical moments.”
The ceremony featured simulation drills, morale displays, and recognition of the Top 10 Trainees for outstanding performance. It concluded with a vote of thanks from a trainee representative, followed by group photographs with dignitaries and facilitators.
With two cohorts successfully trained, the CMFR programme is redefining Ghana’s emergency response landscape — ensuring that professional care is never far from any community.
Second Batch of Community Medical First Responders Pass Out at Asutuare
