NAMIBIA University of Science and Technology (NUST) paramedic student Fillemon Primus who died on Thursday during a practical session at the City of Windhoek (CoW) Emergency Training Centre has been described as kind and vibrant colleague, who approached his duties with dedication and diligence, leaving a lasting impact on all who had worked with him.
A media statement issued on Friday by CoW said the incident happened at about 15h00 when the student was participating in a practical component of confined space training, which is part of their second-year Bachelor of Emergency Medical Care training requirements.
“This training session was conducted in collaboration with NUST, as per Memorandum of Understanding between the two institutions,” it reads.
The statement further noted that immediate basic life support measures were initiated, and the student was rushed to the Katutura Intermediate Hospital for further medical attention, however he succumbed despite the efforts.
“An investigation into the circumstances surrounding this incident is ongoing, and the City of Windhoek is fully cooperating with the relevant authorities,” it added.
His former colleagues at Emed Rescue 24 said Fillemon joined the service in 2015 as a Basic Life Support practitioner, advancing to an Intermediate Life Support practitioner during the course of employment. In 2022, he left Emed to pursue his passion in Prehospital Emergency Medical Care at NUST which marked a new chapter in his career. “On behalf of the entire Emed family, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and all who were fortunate to have known him. May his gentle soul rest in eternal peace. He will be dearly missed.”
Windhoek mayor Queen Omagano Kamati on Saturday paid a visit to the residence of Primus.
Kamati expressed the City’s deepest condolences and sympathy to the bereaved family. She emphasised the profound loss of a promising young individual whose future contributions to Namibia’s economy were anticipated.
She added: “We, as the leadership of the City of Windhoek, are deeply saddened to learn of Fillemon’s passing. A young man whose future was being sharpened to contribute to the economy of Namibia. As members of the community and on behalf of the entire Windhoek Municipal Council, we extend our heartfelt condolences and offer moral support to the family. May you find strength in the comfort of the Lord during this difficult time.”
– Nampa