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A 13-year-old student from Carefield School Complex in Bawjiase, close to Kasoa, Central Region, has distinguished himself as a local hero after rescuing over fifty children from a potentially fatal bus accident. Class 6 student Augustine Nii Odoi Laryea quickly intervened to avert the collision by applying the brakes of their school bus, ensuring the safety of himself and other passengers. Augustine's heroic actions took place last month when the students were on their way home. On Friday, August 11, 2023, Augustine recounted the incident on Onua TV's Maakye programme. He said that their bus driver, who is sadly no longer alive, was driving recklessly, which was out of character for him. As the bus crossed the Opembo bridge on its way from Kasoa to Bawjiase, the driver had to swerve to avoid a 'aroglass' (a wooden cargo vehicle) that was coming from behind because the bridge was still being built. Augustine noticed the danger at this precise moment: their bus was heading in the direction of a pit beneath the bridge. He observed the driver's behaviour changing, foam flowing from his mouth, and his deteriorating health. Without hesitation, Augustine stepped on the brake, prompting a chorus of screams and shouts from his fellow students. Even though some people insulted him in the chaos, his focus remained unwavering.
I observed foam rising from his mouth and noticed that he had weakened. When I realised this, I stepped on the bus's brake, which caused everyone to yell and holler. The child spoke on Onua TV and said, "Some people were even insulting me. The school's caterer hurried to secure the bus and evacuate the pupils while being assisted by another teacher. The safety of everyone on board was assured by Augustine's urgent requests for his classmates to depart in the midst of the chaotic situation.
Tragically, the driver was brought to Bawjiase Hospital before being transported to Buduburam, where he was pronounced dead. The school's community took note of Augustine's bravery. He was led by a teacher who told the children to refer to him as a "hero" moving forwards as instructed by the headmistress of the school. Augustine's mother, Emelia Assah Laryea, revealed that another bus driver had noted his interest in and familiarity with automobiles and driving. Augustine's promise in these areas piqued the driver's interest, who talked to him about cars and even drove him to the bus. As the school prepares for an upcoming graduation next month, the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) has decided to honour Augustine for his extraordinary bravery during the celebration.
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