Schools to get medical equipment

The Government has committed $30 million towards a three-year programme to furnish schools with medical equipment, including stretchers, as part of emergency plans at the institutions.

Under the health and safety initiative, commencing this financial year, $10 million will be spent each year to ensure medical emergency standards are achieved for the hosting of sporting activities, says Minister of Education, Youth and Information Ruel Reid.

Addressing a presentation ceremony at JAMPRO in Kingston yesterday, where Team Jamaica Bickle presented 15 automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to schools across the island, the minister said details of the programme will be worked out with school principals and representatives of the Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association.

The minister also said approval has been given for 10 per cent of government funds to schools to be used for sports development.

Commending Team Jamaica Bickle for the donation, the minister said head of the organisation, Irwine Clare, had taken keen interest in the "promotion of good health and education in Jamaica".

The AEDs are portable electronic devices that automatically diagnose life-threatening cardiac issues and are designed to be used by laypersons.

Receiving schools were trained to use the machines by experts attached to the diaspora health care sector.

Team Jamaica Bickle has also partnered with the Jamaica Association of Emergency Medical Technicians, based at the University of the West Indies, to provide ongoing training and support to the recipient schools.