Secondary school teachers commit two days to learning about disaster risk reduction

Priority three of the United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction’s Hyogo Framework for Action indicates that countries must use knowledge, innovation and education to build a culture of safety and resilience at all levels. Moreover, it states that disasters can be reduced substantially if people are well informed about measures they can take to reduce vulnerability and if they are motivated to act. It is in this vein that the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM) partnered with the Ministry of Education for another Disaster Risk Reduction Workshop for Secondary School Teacherswhich has been included as part of the Ministry of Education's 4thAnnual Professional Development Workshop for Teachers.

This two day workshop runs from August 9-10 at the Rudranath Capildeo Learning Resource Centre, Mc Bean Village, Couva and aims to enhance the knowledge of these educators (who specialise in Geography and Social Studies) on the hazards that most affect Trinidad and Tobago and the correct practices to adopt before, during and after these hazards occur, so that safety and resilience can be achieved. In order to achieve this aim, lectures are being conducted by a number of agencies including The University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre, the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Services, the Trinidad and Tobago Occupational Safety and Health Authority and Agency, theWater Resources Agency, the Ministry of Health and the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service.

In his opening remarks at the formal launch of this workshop, ODPM CEO, Dr Stephen Ramroop recognised the dedication of the teachers and indicated that all sectors (businesses, public sector, educational institutions, communities and the individuals) must embrace and incorporate disaster risk management in all its strategies and objectives. Additionally, he promised that the ODPM will continue to do its part to mainstream disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation into all strategies so that we can reduce the risk and thus minimise the impacts of hazards on our society, economy and development.

Minister in the Ministry of National Security, Honourable Collin Partap, told attendees that “we must rid ourselves of the God is a Trini syndrome and create a new culture; one which promotes safety and resilience. ” He further went on to say to the teachers that “knowledge is important. Natural disasters do not wait for any one and as result; we must all continue to increase our knowledge on all types of disasters. ”

In his special remarks, Minister in the Ministry of Education, Honourable Clifton De Couteau affirmed that the “incorporation of disaster risk management  programmes at the secondary school, will result in a more informed, empowered and prepared nation.” In thanking the teachers present and recognising their effort to sacrifice two days of their vacation, he told them that “while children can be regarded as change agents, you all are the tools for the change.”  He also stated that “Trinidad and Tobago has embarked on a journey of sustainable development of which education plays a vital role. The incorporation of aspects of prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response, recovery and rehabilitation in the education system should allow for a high level of dissemination and application.”

The ODPM continues to embrace each opportunity to partner with all stakeholders and key players in order to adopt innovative and creative ways to enhance the level of preparedness of our citizens, our communities, our sectors and our country.

ENDS

Issued by:

Public Information, Education and Community Outreach Unit