Page 97 - ADCMC PR REPORT - OCTOBER 2024

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 management and disaster response. Additionally, it is
actively developing infrastructure to support rapid and effective crisis response. Through these
initiatives and carefully considered plans, ADCMC continues to enhance the readiness of the
Emirate of Abu Dhabi to face future challenges efficiently and effectively.

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