GIFT OF LIFE

Blood donation is a critical humanitarian activity which keeps the hopes alive of thousands of those needing surgery as well as accident victims. Central Blood Bank constantly urges the public to come forward for this noble cause. However, in Ramadan the call becomes more urgent as donations typically decline. What proactive steps should the concerned authorities take to ensure enough blood stocks? Here is what Muscat Daily readers said -

It is indeed a very serious matter. I believe that collaborating with local organisations and religious leaders to promote blood donation can help raise awareness and increase participation. Hosting blood drives at workplaces, schools and mosques with the support of religious leaders can encourage more people to donate.

Suleiman Balushi Private sector employee

I feel that offering incentives such as discounts at local businesses or entry into prize draws for blood donors can motivate people to donate during Ramadan. People must be recognised and appreciated publicly, even if it means some social media promotions or on websites.

Salman Khan Businessman

Social organisations can hold donation drives in the same way as public iftars are held. However, such drives need to be at least three hours after prayers and iftars. Authorities should organise mobile blood donation drives in communities across Oman, making it convenient for people to donate without having to travel far.

Salim al Amri Taxi driver Hanifa Khan Private sector employee

courage their followers to participate. Mobile apps or online platforms must be developed to schedule appointments, track donation drives, and provide information about eligibility criteria and donation centres.

Vaibhavi Gandhi Student

Blood donation camps should be promoted daily, and every NGO and government organisation, along with private sector entities, should be involved in these efforts. More awareness should be created as to why donating blood is important. There can be open blood donation camps as well in public places.

Kathleen Lane Traveller

Promote donating blood after breaking the fast. Set up mobile blood donation units in mosques after Taraweeh prayers. Do a blood donation drive the month before Ramadan.

Sarojini Parasuram Private sector employee

Blood requirements are routine, so adequate collections must happen throughout the year to tide through this phase of Ramadan. Blood banks do send regular reminders to donors, but the restriction clause to donate applicable on those who were away from the country makes most of us unfit to donate. Reminders to those with particular blood groups would help tide the need. Also, a personal call to a donor will make them oblige.

YOUR SAY

People often have no idea where or when donation drives are being conducted. Holding awareness campaigns through social media, television and radio can educate the public about the importance of blood donation during Ramadan.

Donation drives can be organised at convenient times and locations in coordination with mosques, community centres and offices during non-fasting hours. Community leaders must be engaged in such efforts. The support of religious leaders and community influencers must be sought to endorse blood donation drives and en

Sayed Murthala Mohamed Muheez Accountant

Increase awareness campaigns about the importance of blood donation during Ramadan. Organise mobile blood donation drives at mosques and community centres. Offer incentives such as vouchers or discounts to encourage donation. Collaborate with businesses to sponsor blood donation events. Implement flexible donation hours to accommodate fasting individuals.