Honiara City Council School Bus Staff Complete First Aid Training to Strengthen Student Safety

Student safety on Honiara City Council (HCC) school buses has been strengthened, with drivers and conductors now equipped with critical first aid skills through training supported by the Solomon Islands-Australia Partnership.

DFAT rep, Red Cross rep and HCC school bus drivers and conductors showing first aid kits for the buses.

Delivered by the Solomon Islands Red Cross Society on 24–25 June, the training followed a safeguarding workshop in April that identified the need to boost emergency response capability among school bus personnel.

Red Cross facilitator doing practical demonstrations.

Eight staff – four drivers and four conductors – successfully completed certified first aid training. They gained practical skills to respond to common incidents such as injuries, choking and fainting, improving their ability to act quickly and confidently in emergencies.

Two participants doing demonstrations on how to wrap wounds.

Participants were also provided with first aid kits and safety uniforms, reinforcing their role in ensuring safe daily transport for students.

This initiative marks a practical step toward safer journeys and stronger protection for students, both on the way to school and beyond.

Two participants doing practical sessions during the training.

It also reflects the ongoing partnership between Solomon Islands and Australia to enhance student wellbeing and safety across the education system.