As is customary during Teachers’ Week, a group of teachers donated blood to the blood bank at the Seychelles Hospital, in an organised drive held yesterday.

The activity last year pulled in 19 teachers, although a few more were expected this year.

According to senior programme officer at the Ministry of Health, Elizabeth Banda, over 25 educators were expected during yesterday’s drive.

“We are hoping that they could do it at least three times annually, and it would be very helpful to us. A few months ago, we were in a crisis. For now though, we are stable and we are very thankful to the community for being very supportive,” she said.

“The blood being drawn last about a month, some units may take it after 35 days and others 42, but in general, it lasts about a month before it expires. So, we need a constant supply of blood which is why, even for the teachers, we would like if they could do so maybe after every three or four months, so we can have a constant supply,” Ms Banda noted, highlighting the shortages the ministry is often faced with.

As expected, each teacher was screened by a doctor upon arrival who qualifies them to donate blood, before further tests are conducted to determine the haemoglobin level of the individual. If it is determined that they qualify to donate, they can then proceed to do so.

Expressing gratitude towards the Ministry of Education and teachers who donated yesterday, Ms Banda also made a call to other organisations, individuals and the community at large to support the ministry and patients in need.

Source: Seychelles Nation