Nihon Kohden empowers JICA Sri Lanka with lifesaving skills training

Nihon Kohden Sri Lanka recently held a lifesaving skills training session for staff personnel at the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Sri Lanka on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Partnering with the Resuscitation Council of the College of Anaesthesiologists & Intensivists of Sri Lanka, and its local partner, Hemas Surgicals & Diagnostics, the session aimed to help employees offer immediate first-aid assistance to victims of sudden cardiac arrest.

Recognising that heart disease remains a critical public health challenge in Sri Lanka, the session, hosted by Nihon Kohden, underscores the urgent need for preventive strategies and public awareness. Led by three consultant anaesthetists, Dr. Nilmini Wijesuriya, Dr. Nilmini Manawadu, Dr. Lakmali Samaraweera, and other trainers from the Resuscitation Council, the session demonstrated how a simplified defibrillator can be used, even by nonmedical personnel, to save lives. Official representatives of the Ministry of Health were also in attendance at the event.

Working in collaboration with Nihon Kohden, Hemas Surgicals & Diagnostics, amplified the session’s insights by offering comprehensive CPR and AED training in partnership with the Sri Lanka College of Anaesthetists and Intensivists.

Speaking about the collaboration, Dr. Mahesha Ranasoma, Managing Director of Hemas Pharmaceuticals and Hemas Surgicals & Diagnostics, said, “We’re very pleased to partner with Nihon Kohden. The opportunity allows us to represent our shared values and abiding respect for initiatives that not only encourage the elevated accessibility of lifesaving technology but also the skills to ensure people live full, healthy lives.”  

Discussing the session, Sampath Kularatne, the country representative of Nihon Kohden, said, “It is extremely gratifying to be part of an initiative of this nature. As deep believers in the value of human lives, we recognise the significance of raising awareness and educating people about lifesaving skills. We’re grateful to our associates at the College of Anaesthesiologists & Intensivists of Sri Lanka for

for coming forward to share their knowledge and making the learning experience a resounding success.”

The session provided JICA staff with a comprehensive insight into identifying victims of sudden cardiac arrest, providing chest compressions, and using AED machines effectively. The session detailed how early CPR and timely defibrillation can dramatically improve the survival chances of a person experiencing cardiac arrest. Featuring simulated exercises and interactive engagement, the session placed an emphasis on how being prepared with life-saving skills can make the difference between life and death.

Upon concluding the session, participants received an official certificate from the College of Anaesthesiologists & Intensivists of Sri Lanka. Recognized by the European Resuscitation Council as the authorized body to conduct European-standard resuscitation courses, the Resuscitation Council of Sri Lanka is the only affiliation of its kind in South Asia, ensuring that the training met globally accepted standards.

Minoru Matsunoshia, Senior Office Representative for JICA Sri Lanka added, “Raising awareness of first-aid protocols in the event of cardiac arrest is the first step in proactively preventing death. This session continues JICA’s long-standing support of efforts that strengthen the healthcare sector and medical services. We’re committed to endorsing and advancing collaborative efforts that safeguard health and wellbeing for all.”