NamBTS Hosts Peer Promoters Training Programme
The Namibian Blood Transfusion Service (NamBTS) recently launched its biennial Peer Promoters Training Programme in Rehoboth. The programme will occur in phases in Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, Windhoek, and elsewhere.This initiative aims to increase youth participation in blood donation by selecting and training six learners per school from various high schools across the country.
Learners are chosen by a designated teacher responsible for coordinating blood donation activities at each school.
The latest training session saw strong participation from a range of schools in Windhoek, reinforcing the programme’s mission to create a new generation of active blood donors.
NamBTS organises blood donation clinics at numerous schools across the country, and they engage learners on the importance of blood donation and empower them to become ambassadors for the institution at their respective schools.
The training programme provided a comprehensive overview of NamBTS operations, covering its fixed and mobile blood donation sites, as well as the collection, processing, and distribution of the blood and blood products collected.
Each peer promoter was provided with a NamBTS-branded shirt and badge, symbolising their official role within the programme.
Peer promoters were also trained on their roles and responsibilities, equipping them with essential skills to advocate for blood donations at their schools for their tenure as peer promoters for the NamBTS.
Throughout the year the peer promoters will collaborate closely with NamBTS staff, gaining first-hand experience in the day-to-day operations of the organisation.
The training sessions also included discussions on the importance of maintaining a safe and adequate blood supply, donor eligibility criteria, and dispelling common myths surrounding blood donation.
Learners were encouraged to share their perspectives and ideas on how to promote donation drives more effectively in their respective schools.
To foster teamwork and engagement, Team Build Namibia facilitated an icebreaker session, which was met with enthusiasm from the learners.
The interactive session helped create a lively and collaborative environment, setting the stage for a productive training programme.
Activities focused on communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills, reinforcing the qualities required for successful peer promoters.
Through initiatives like the Peer Promoters Training Programme, NamBTS continues to inspire and equip young leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to advocate for blood donation.
This programme not only benefits the organisation but also instils a sense of social responsibility among Namibia’s youth as the youth plays a big role in addressing blood shortages and saving lives through consistent advocacy and participation in donation drives.
With their active involvement, NamBTS hopes to create a culture of voluntary blood donation that will extend beyond school walls and into the broader community.