By Dr. Maurice M. Pepela, PhD
One of the most telling indicators of a nation’s commitment to life, safety, and human dignity is how it prepares its citizens to respond in moments of crisis.
In many parts of the developed world, including Europe, America, and Australia, it is a standard requirement that individuals undergo basic First Aid training before being employed, especially in professions that involve public service, care, or physical labor.
This mandatory approach underlines the value placed on human life and proactive safety. In stark contrast, Kenya—and indeed much of Africa—continues to lag behind in embedding First Aid training within its educational systems and professional sectors. This policy gap speaks volumes and presents an urgent call for change.
In Kenya today, the typical reaction of bystanders when an accident, disaster, or emergency occurs is often one of passivity or misplaced priorities. Many people are quick to take photos or videos of injured victims and share them on social media platforms, rather than stepping in to assist or even call for help.
This growing trend, driven by a combination of digital addiction and ignorance, reflects a dangerous erosion of societal values—particularly empathy, responsibility, and the sanctity of life. It is evident that much of this behavior is not necessarily due to a lack of concern, but rather a lack of knowledge and confidence in knowing what to do during an emergency.
To change this narrative, Kenya must undertake a fundamental policy shift. A national directive should be introduced to make First Aid training compulsory in all learning institutions—starting from primary schools to universities—and across all professions, regardless of the field. This would ensure that every citizen, from a young age, is equipped with the basic skills to offer help in an emergency situation.
Knowing how to control bleeding, perform CPR, or assist a choking victim could mean the difference between life and death. By making this training universal, we not only increase survival rates in emergencies, but we also instill a culture of preparedness, compassion, and social responsibility.
Embedding First Aid training into the national curriculum and professional development programs will also help bridge the information gap that currently exists. Many Kenyans are unaware of how to react during a medical emergency, a road accident, or even a fire outbreak. Without proper knowledge, even the best intentions can lead to more harm than good.
Moreover, in a country where emergency response systems are often delayed or overwhelmed, the presence of trained bystanders becomes even more critical. A first responder does not always need to be a doctor or nurse; with basic training, any ordinary citizen can stabilize a victim before medical professionals arrive.
Incorporating First Aid training into the education system can also serve as a transformative tool for changing attitudes toward life and humanity. When learners are taught the importance of protecting life, acting selflessly, and being accountable for the welfare of others, these values begin to take root in society.
Institutions will begin to produce not only academically competent individuals but also morally grounded and socially responsible citizens. Similarly, in the workplace, mandatory First Aid certification would enhance workplace safety, reduce fatalities from occupational hazards, and create a culture of collective responsibility.
Implementing such a policy will require collaboration between the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health, the Kenya Red Cross, St. John Ambulance, and other health and safety organizations.
These bodies can help develop standardized training modules and ensure that qualified instructors are available across the country. Schools and workplaces should also be mandated to organize regular refresher courses to ensure that skills remain sharp and up-to-date.
The government, in turn, must provide funding, resources, and legislative support to drive this initiative forward and make it sustainable.
In conclusion, the time for change is now. Kenya cannot afford to continue watching lives slip away simply because no one knew what to do.
Making First Aid training compulsory in all learning institutions and for all professions is more than a safety measure—it is a moral imperative. It will help restore the value of life, nurture a more empathetic and responsive society, and align our national ethos with global standards of care and responsibility.
Let us choose to be a country that does not just document tragedy but actively works to prevent it.
Dr. Pepela, Ph.D. is a Lecturer, Disaster Management Expert and a Strategic Foresight Expert at MMUST…..Email : pmourice@gmail.com
