Managing health issues in Gauteng schools : an evaluation of the administrative efficacy of the first aid (FA) provisioning

Abstract

Injuries, illnesses and deaths happening in schools are a growing menace in Gauteng province, South Africa. This qualitative research study sought to evaluate the administrative efficacy of first aid (FA) provisioning in Gauteng schools in the wake of rampant injuries, deaths and disfigurement among learners and teachers, as documented in the local print and electronic media. An emergent research design underpinned by a phenomenological theoretical perspective unravelled the administrative efficacy of the provisioning of FA in two pre-schools, two primary schools and two high schools in Gauteng province. Observations in one school, semi-structured face-to-face interviews with one pre-school manager, three FA appointed persons, one deputy headmaster and a subject head of department, as well as focus group discussions with learners and teachers in two schools, were the data-gathering tools. A thematic analysis approach was the method adopted to analyse data. Research findings indicate very low levels of FA literacy and competency among learners, teachers, pre-school managers and principals in the sampled schools. I recommend and advocate a national conversation aimed at instituting a massive drive to make it mandatory for all learners and teachers to be trained in FA.