Scores of people from various parts of the Vieux Fort joined with IAU-COM in observing World Blood Donor Day by donating blood at a blood donation drive organized by the university on Tuesday June 14. Their overwhelming support for the event was evident by the number of people who participated in the exercise which was held on the compound of the university.
During a simple ceremony Dean of Basic Sciences Dr. Joyant Mohite emphasized the importance of the event and exhorted the public to donate blood to the blood bank.
“Donating blood to someone is the best donation a person can make to another… There is always a shortage of blood throughout the world,” Dr. Mohite said.
He explained how happy he would be to know that his blood was used to save someone’s life.
Dr. Christopher Beaubrun, past president of St. Lucia Dental and Medical Council, in his address also encouraged the students to play their role in saving lives by donating blood to the blood bank.
A total of 39 units of blood were donated during the exercise which represents a significant increase compare to last year. This is the highest amount of blood that has been donated to the blood bank in one day.
Persons who participated in the exercise which included students and staff and professors of IAU and members of the general public describe the event as a worthwhile one.
Christian Wilson who has been donating blood to the blood bank for many years said: “I would like to commend the University for conducting such an important exercise. It will go a long way in saving lives.”
Pearlene Smith a secondary school student described the exercise as a “very important one” adding that such exercise should be appreciated by the general public.
Public Relations Officer of IAU Mr. Sibi Gopalakyrishnan said he is very pleased with the response of the public, adding that it is very encouraging. “The general public responded in a positive way. They have shown that they have appreciated our presence in the community by supporting every activity we organize,” he said
The university has been observing World Blood Donor Day on a yearly basis and the public support for it has always been overwhelming.
