Local services
On April 29, the Hungarian Red Cross Debrecen Regional Organisation held its 53rd first aid competition. This year, an exceptionally high number of 24 teams competed.
The children’s, youth, and adult category winners advance to the county-level finals. The competition aims to deepen knowledge essential for saving lives and to encourage commitment to volunteerism and assistance.
The first aid competition organised by the Hungarian Red Cross Debrecen Regional Organisation has a long history, now held for the 53rd time, designed for teams across different age groups from children to adults to acquire and practice key life-saving skills.
In her opening speech, Deputy Mayor of Debrecen, Dr. Diána Széles, emphasised the competition’s role in shaping individuals and building communities. She highlighted that these events educate young people to care not only for themselves but also for others. In today’s self-centred world, where social media often shows people passing by those in need, the competing students and their mentors set an example in offering help and demonstrating courage.
She expressed her wish for Debrecen to be a city where people do not turn away but step up and help those in need. She thanked the Hungarian Red Cross and the National Ambulance Service for their efforts and pointed out that, thanks to their cooperation, more and more Life-Saving Points are being established in Debrecen.
Dr. Sándor Sutka, President of the Hungarian Red Cross Debrecen Regional Organisation, stressed that first aid should be a legal obligation and a moral and ethical commitment. He added that the three teams advancing to the next stage are today’s winners, as are the Debrecen Red Cross and the city.
The event’s patron, Dr. Dezsőné Széles, emphasised in the ceremonial opening that first aid has become a key area of the Red Cross movement’s mission. She stated that over the years, through selfless actions and charitable efforts, students have learned that the Hungarian Red Cross, alongside their families, teaches them to think critically, debate, fight for themselves and others, unite for noble causes, and ultimately support people in need.
The Debrecen competition winners will continue at the county-level finals and may even progress to the national championships.
Source and photo credit: debrecen.hu
