In a significant initiative to enhance disaster preparedness in Fiji, the Fiji Business Disaster Resilience Council, in partnership with the National Disaster Risk Management Office, launched new disaster awareness materials in Suva. This campaign specifically targets students from years 9 to 13 and their families, aiming to cultivate a strong culture of readiness as the cyclone season approaches, which typically spans from November to April.
Inoke Raikoso, Senior Education Officer from the Ministry of Education, highlighted the challenges faced in fostering a culture of preparedness among the youth. He noted that the vulnerabilities of many communities and the aging infrastructures of numerous schools, some of which date back to the 1800s, complicate efforts to implement effective strategies for disaster risk management.
Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Disaster Management, Isoa Talemaibua, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, describing the distribution of 10,000 calendars and educational materials as a meaningful initiative. He pointed out that these resources serve not only as informational tools but also as daily reminders for families to prioritize disaster preparedness.
Over the past year, more than 50,000 homes and nearly 70,000 students have benefited from similar initiatives. With an additional 50,000 households expected to receive materials this year, these extensive outreach efforts reflect a commitment to building a knowledgeable and resilient community capable of facing the challenges posed by natural disasters.
This initiative is part of a broader government strategy that underscores the importance of household readiness and active youth involvement in disaster risk management. Minister Sakiasi Ditoka has been a prominent advocate for these efforts, emphasizing the vital role families play in ensuring safety against natural calamities, particularly as climate change increases the risks faced by communities.
In summary, the launch of disaster awareness materials represents a hopeful step towards fostering resilience in Fiji. By focusing on education and community collaboration, these initiatives aim to improve safety and awareness among the populace, equipping them to respond effectively to the challenges of natural disasters. As Fiji prepares for the cyclone season, such proactive measures are essential in creating a safer future for all Fijians.
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