The Gauteng Department of Health has warned residents not to pay for First Responder Training, stressing that the programme offered through Lebone College of Emergency Care is completely free. Authorities are urging the public to report anyone unlawfully charging fees while using the department’s name. Picture Credit: 4county
By Aisha Zardad
South Africa – The Gauteng Department of Health has raised the alarm after uncovering social media posts advertising paid “First Responder Training” courses that unlawfully claim to be linked to the department.
Health officials say they noted “with serious concern” that members of the public were being asked to pay fees to attend the programme — despite it being offered free of charge through the department’s official training institution, Lebone College of Emergency Care.
“The Department wishes to advise the public that First Responder Training offered by the Department’s Lebone College of Emergency Care is provided free of charge for all residents of Gauteng,” the department said.
Authorities stressed that any individual or organisation demanding payment while using the department’s name is acting unlawfully.
“Any individual or organisation charging community members for this training while using the Department’s name is doing so without authorisation.”
The First Responder Training programme provides community members with critical life-saving skills, including CPR, stabilising victims of violence, and managing emergencies such as stab and gunshot wounds, burns, falls and sprains
Officials said the initiative forms part of a broader effort to strengthen emergency response capacity in vulnerable communities.
“Since the relaunch of the programme in 2023, GDoH has prioritised training of community members from disadvantaged areas, including townships, informal settlements and hostels (TISH).”
According to the department, more than 12,000 residents have already completed the training and are now better equipped to assist during emergencies while waiting for professional responders.
The department emphasised that it is the sole authorised provider of the programme and urged residents to verify invitations before enrolling in any course claiming to be linked to Gauteng Health.
“Members of the public must immediately report scams or anyone demanding payment for this training to Lebone College of Emergency Care.”
Residents are encouraged to contact the college directly through its official channels to report suspicious activity or confirm legitimate training opportunities.
