By Uchechukwu Muolokwu
The Head of the Students’ Accident, Emergency and Safety Unit, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Igbariam Campus, Dr. Afamnede Godfrey Oguechuo, has called for a strategic partnership with the Anambra State Fire Service to strengthen fire prevention, safety awareness and emergency response within the university community.
Dr. Afamnede made the call during a meeting with the Commander of the Anambra State Fire Service, Engr. Chiketa Chukwudi Emmanuel, on Sept. 9, where he emphasised the need for Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University to be accorded priority within the Fire Service’s emergency response network.
He noted that students could be particularly vulnerable during fire outbreaks because of inadequate knowledge of emergency procedures, stressing the importance of equipping them with the skills required to respond effectively to emergencies.
Dr. Afamnede also proposed the establishment of a direct communication channel between COOU and the fire service to facilitate rapid response whenever emergencies occur on campus.
Responding, Engr. Chiketa welcomed the proposal and disclosed that a similar arrangement was already in place with Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), where a standby fire service van serves the university and its environs.
Dr. Afamnede expressed interest in replicating the model at COOU, adding that members of the university’s Student Safety Marshals could be trained to serve as first responders during emergencies.
The Fire Service Commander offered to provide intensive training for the marshals in fire prevention, safety and emergency response, with the possibility of certifying them as Student Fire Marshals.
Dr. Afamnede also invited the commander to a forthcoming luncheon with the vice-chancellor of COOU, Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha, to commemorate the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims on Nov. 17, under the theme, “Remembering Lives, Promoting Safety.”
The commander accepted the invitation and indicated that, subject to the successful completion of the proposed training, the Student Fire Marshals could be formally inaugurated during the event.
Uchechukwu Muolokwu is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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