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10/14/24, 3:52 PM ADCMC releases research report highlighting role of education and community awareness in disaster preparedness - Middle East …
The research report underscored how education serves as a key driver in the effective implementation of
disaster management mechanisms, including evacuation procedures, the use of rescue equipment,
communication with relevant disaster agencies, and the utilisation of technology to access critical information
during disasters. It highlighted the role of higher education institutions in research and development, which is
instrumental in enhancing community resilience. The research report also emphasised the importance of
integrating knowledge of risks and disasters into educational curricula, even in countries that do not
experience catastrophic natural phenomena.
The release of the research report coincided with the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, which
was held under the theme ‘The Role of Education in Protecting and Empowering Youth for a Disaster-Free
Future’. In this context, the research report highlighted the critical role of education as a foundational pillar in
shaping a brighter future for young people, especially in addressing the growing global challenges posed by
natural disasters.
Haidar Omar Al Hashmi, Acting Executive Director of Prevention and Preparedness Sector at the
ADCMC, said: “Crises and disasters are significant challenges confronting societies, which necessitate
enhanced awareness of the associated risks. Education plays a vital role in this regard,
as it equips individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to understand and manage risks, as well as
disseminating information about potential risks and how to respond when they occur. At the ADCMC, we are
committed to developing studies, policies, and plans that contribute to preventing potential crises and
disasters and responding to them. We also emphasise the importance of raising awareness and knowledge
as a fundamental pillar for mitigating the impacts of crises and disasters, thereby contributing to sustainable
development and social security.”
The research report adopted a descriptive and comparative analytical research methodology to examine the
role of education in raising awareness to address disasters and crises. It features various experiences from
around the world, including the UAE, and outlines various key factors that enhance the impact of education in
responding to emergencies. This includes tailored crisis and disaster preparedness and mitigation plan as
well as understanding local crises and the community characteristics of each region.
Additionally, the research report explored methods for acquiring disaster prevention techniques, the capacity
to rehabilitate areas affected by crises and disasters, and the availability of suitable and effective tools. These
tools include traditional educational resources such as lectures and books, as well as methods to leverage
technological advancements in developing simulation models, virtual applications, and games that engage
students in learning.
ADCMC seeks to enhance the readiness of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi through a range of studies, researches,
and proactive plans. The Centre’s efforts focus on several key areas to improve response to various crises,
including joint drills with various government and private entities, and collaboration with partners through the
establishment of joint workshops to enhance cooperation and knowledge exchange in the field of crisis
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