In a proactive initiative to enhance disaster preparedness across Fiji, the Fiji Business Disaster Resilience Council, working alongside the National Disaster Risk Management Office, launched new disaster awareness materials in Suva. This program specifically targets students in years 9 to 13, along with their families, to foster a culture of readiness as the cyclone season approaches, which typically occurs from November to April.

Inoke Raikoso, Senior Education Officer from the Ministry of Education, highlighted the significant challenges of promoting a culture of disaster preparedness among the youth. He pointed out that many communities face vulnerabilities, and some school infrastructures date back to the 1800s, adding complexity to the effective delivery of disaster risk management education.

The Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Disaster Management, Isoa Talemaibua, emphasized the importance of distributing 10,000 calendars and educational materials as part of this campaign. He celebrated the collaboration, stating, “This initiative represents not just a distribution effort but a commitment to ensuring every family, individual, and business in Fiji is more prepared for natural disasters.” The materials serve as daily reminders to encourage families to prioritize disaster preparedness.

Over the past year, the initiative has already reached over 50,000 homes and nearly 70,000 students. An additional 50,000 households are expected to benefit from these resources this year, highlighting a strong commitment to building resilience in the community.

This program aligns with government calls for increased household readiness and emphasizes the importance of youth involvement in disaster risk management. Minister Sakiasi Ditoka has advocated for households to take proactive measures to ensure their safety, underscoring the vulnerable state of many communities in the face of climate change.

In summary, the launch of these disaster awareness materials represents a hopeful step towards building a culture of resilience in Fiji. Through education and collaboration, these efforts aim not only to improve safety and awareness among residents but also to inspire confidence in the community’s ability to confront future challenges. As Fiji prepares for the cyclone season, initiatives like this are crucial in contributing to a safer future for all Fijians.