Thirteen-year-old Augustine Nii Odoi Laryea from Carefield School Complex in Bawjiase, Central Region, is receiving praise and admiration from his schoolmates and teachers after his heroic act of stopping a moving school bus when the driver collapsed. The incident took place last month but went unnoticed by the media until it was featured on local language TV station Onua TV’s morning show,
The bus was carrying around 50 people, including students, teachers, and a caterer, when the driver suddenly lost consciousness. Augustine, who was sitting near the driver, noticed that the bus was swerving unpredictably from one lane to another, which was unusual behavior for the driver. Concerned about the safety of everyone on board, Augustine realized that the bus was heading towards a construction pit under the Opembo bridge. He also noticed that the driver had foam around his mouth, a clear sign that something was seriously wrong.
Without hesitation, Augustine stepped on the brake, causing panic and chaos among the passengers. Despite his efforts, the bus didn’t come to a complete stop, so the caterer and another teacher quickly placed a chock under the vehicle to secure it temporarily. Augustine, who revealed that he knows how to drive, immediately instructed his peers to evacuate the bus as quickly as possible.
The unconscious driver was rushed to Bawjiase Hospital but sadly passed away after being transferred to a hospital in Buduburam. In the aftermath of the incident, teachers at the school hailed Augustine as a hero, recognizing his quick thinking and knowledge about vehicles. Other bus drivers in the school were astounded by his courage and ability to take control of the situation.
In response to his heroic act, the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) of Carefield School Complex has decided to honor Augustine during the school’s upcoming graduation ceremony in September. His bravery and selflessness serve as an inspiration to his peers and a reminder of the importance of being observant and taking action in times of crisis.
Watch the video below.
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