On September 10th, 2025, Medan Independent School (MIS) was honored to host a comprehensive training session on Basic Life Support (BLS), with a particular focus on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and first aid responses for choking incidents in adults and babies. The training took place in the MIS gymnasium at 2:30 p.m. until 4.00 p.m., and was facilitated by Dr. Huy Luu from the Embassy in Jakarta in collaboration with the U.S. Consulate in Medan. Dr. Huy Luu accompanied by Dr. Adinata Zein from LivWell Clinic in Medan. 

The session was attended by most of the MIS faculty members with some participants from other schools, reflecting a shared commitment to enhancing emergency preparedness within the educational community. Dr. Luu provided in-depth explanation and instruction on the principles of BLS, demonstrating effective CPR techniques and appropriate interventions for choking cases across different age groups.

A key highlight of the training was the practical component, where participants engaged in hands-on practice using the CPR mannequins. This allowed everyone to develop both technical accuracy and confidence in performing life-saving interventions. The interactive approach ensured that participants could translate theoretical knowledge into practical skills, preparing them to respond effectively in real-life emergencies.

The training offered significant benefits for educators, equipping them with the ability to act promptly and decisively during critical incidents. As teachers are often the first responders in school settings, this knowledge is invaluable for safeguarding the well-being of students and colleagues.

The Basic Life Support training, organized by the U.S. Consulate and led by Dr. Huy Luu, represented an important step in strengthening safety preparedness within Medan’s educational community. MIS is grateful to have provided the platform for such an impactful initiative, which has empowered teachers with essential skills to save lives and ensure a safer learning environment for all.

The students began by exploring the things they are responsible for, and considered what would happen if they neglected their responsibilities. This evolved into a discussion about fairness. Students agreed that equality is about sameness, while equity is about fairness—making sure everyone has what they need to succeed. They concluded that equity is the better approach when it comes to treating people justly.

This naturally led to a discussion on rights, including how to speak up when they are not being respected. Students examined the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and discussed how it applies to their lives at school.

After the recent demonstrations we’ve witnessed in the nation, it was encouraging to see our students reflect thoughtfully and collaboratively on their responsibilities and how they can play a role in protecting not only their own rights, but also the rights of others.