ICF Sri Lanka Conducts Basic First Aid Training Program

The Peradeniya team, under the Interfaith Cooperation Forum (ICF) - Sri Lanka Alumni, successfully conducted the first Doable Project on January 26-27, 2025, at the Kandy YMCA City Mission Hall. This Basic First Aid Training program, in collaboration with St. John Ambulance Sri Lanka, provided essential first aid knowledge to participants from tea estate communities in Kandy and Peradeniya. The program fosters both practical skills and stronger community bonds.

Supported by the Interfaith Cooperation Forum (ICF), a project of the Asia and Pacific Alliance of YMCA, the program welcomed nine participants—eight female and one male—representing Buddhist, Christian, and Hindu faiths. The training commenced with a traditional oil lamp lighting ceremony, setting a culturally significant tone for the event. Following this, the organizing team gave a brief introduction. Mr. Malik Lawrence Daniels of the Sri Lanka ICF Alumni provided an insightful orientation on ICF, YMCA, and the objectives of the Peradeniya team's project.

Mr. Aravinda, a First Aid Trainer and Consultant at St. John Ambulance, Sri Lanka, led an engaging hands-on session covering essential emergency response techniques. Participants learned about Dr. ABC, the fundamental steps for assessing a medical emergency, along with CPR techniques for cardiac emergencies. The training also included patient-carrying techniques for the safe transport of injured individuals and bandaging and fracture management for wound care. To reinforce their learning, the participants practiced first aid techniques using dummy dolls and took part in role-play activities, ensuring a practical and immersive experience.

On the second day, the attendees had theoretical lessons on first aid, along with role-play exercises in the morning. The training concluded with written and practical exams, after which participants earned an internationally valid First Aid Certification from St. John Ambulance Sri Lanka and a Certificate of Participation from ICF and YMCA. The Certificate Ceremony was graced by Mr. Lalantha Jayasinghe, General Secretary of Kandy YMCA, and Mr. Yohan, Committee Member of Kandy YMCA. Mr. Lalantha briefly talked about the YMCA’s vision, mission, and key programs, expressing gratitude to all who contributed to the success of this initiative.

The participants showcased their talents through performances and received their certificates of participation. They also expressed their appreciation for this invaluable opportunity to connect with professionals, learn critical life-saving skills, and empower their local communities. This meaningful training marked the first step in equipping communities with essential emergency response skills, fostering a spirit of cooperation, interfaith understanding, and social impact.

The organizers of this training program met challenges but expressed that the experience was rewarding. It was challenging to invite participants from diverse tea estate communities, as many faced transportation difficulties. Schedules met conflicts due to the attendees’ daily work commitments. The team ensured flexibility in planning but maintained the quality and effectiveness o

f the sessions. Another challenge was securing a suitable venue that was both accessible and well-equipped for practical demonstrations. Despite these obstacles, the dedication of the organizing team, the unwavering support from ICF and YMCA, and the enthusiasm of the participants made this initiative a resounding success. The experience reinforced the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and resilience in executing community-based projects that create lasting impact. The Team Peradeiya expressed special thanks to its hard-working members, to St. John Ambulance Sri Lanka for their support and expertise, and to the tea estate community for their active participation and commitment to uplifting their communities. 

The Peradeniya Team members are Sameera Lakmal, Rehan Dinal, Andriya Jenifer, and Yoosuf Yuhana.

Sameera Lakmal Samaraweera