Ouagadougou: The SOS Blood Association, in partnership with the National Blood Transfusion Center (CNTS), convened a meeting in Ouagadougou aimed at enhancing collaboration between secondary school leaders in Kadiogo and stakeholders in blood donation. This initiative seeks to better mobilize students to donate blood.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the meeting took place in the CNTS meeting room and was financially backed by the Sexual and Reproductive Health Program (PSSR). It brought together around twenty school heads, including general managers, principals, and directors, alongside representatives from the Regional Directorate of Secondary Education, Vocational, and Technical Training of Kadiogo.

Participants were informed about the current state of blood donation in Burkina Faso, highlighting the crucial role students play in blood collection efforts and the necessary actions school leaders can undertake to boost engagement.

Mr. Charles K. Bassonon, internal auditor at the CNTS and spokesperson for the meeting, revealed that almost 70% of the blood bags collected in Burkina Faso are donated by students. He stressed the importance of establishing permanent frameworks for consultation and coordination among the CNTS, blood donation promotion associations, and educational institutions to maintain and enhance this significant contribution.

He stated, “The aim is to capitalize on achievements, ensure the sustainability of actions and guarantee efficient mobilization of this important donor group, namely pupils and students.”

The school leaders in attendance provided several recommendations to the CNTS and SOS Sang, specifically focusing on strengthening collaboration and improving awareness campaigns within the schools.