President Dr. Arif Alvi emphasized the importance of basic knowledge about first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) during medical emergencies as a life-saving skill. Speaking at the 12th All Pakistan Camp of the Pakistan Girl Guides Association (PGGA), held at its National Headquarters, he stressed that having the ability to provide emergency aid, including first aid and CPR, can significantly increase the chances of survival in critical situations.
President Alvi highlighted the necessity of spreading the message of emergency response planning, which is an integral part of girl guiding, to schools and colleges. He pointed out that being able to provide basic aid can help stabilize a patient or an injured person in various emergency scenarios, such as accidents, earthquakes, or cardiac arrest, until professional medical services arrive.
He commended the girl guides for their positive contributions to society and encouraged them to raise awareness on issues like breast cancer, disability inclusion, environmental protection, and overall physical and mental well-being. President Alvi expressed satisfaction with the PGGA’s focus on character development to prepare girls to be productive members of society.
However, he noted that the organization should work towards increasing its reach, as the current number of 140,000 girl guides in the country should be expanded. He emphasized the role of educated and healthy women as strong anchors in families and contributors to the nation’s progress. Additionally, he encouraged the girl guides to pursue financial empowerment, pointing out the opportunities provided by information technology for online businesses.
Begum Samina Alvi, Chief Guide of the PGGA, was unable to attend the event due to her recent knee-replacement surgery. National Commissioner Maria Maud Sabri highlighted the PGGA’s commitment to community development projects, which include educating girls about health, nutrition, the environment, and economic empowerment through practical activities.
The Girl Guide movement, initiated in 1947 with the support of the country’s founder, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and his sister Fatima Jinnah, has actively operated through its branches across various provinces and regions of Pakistan. The event was attended by 265 girl guides from different parts of the country.