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, has launched new disaster awareness materials in Suva. The campaign aims to educate students from years 9 to 13 and their families about the importance of being prepared for natural disasters, particularly as the cyclone season approaches.

Inoke Raikoso, a Senior Education Officer from the Ministry of Education, highlighted the challenges involved in instilling a culture of disaster preparedness among students. He noted the vulnerability of many communities and the aging infrastructures of schools, some of which date back to the 1800s, complicating efforts to implement effective disaster risk management strategies.

Isoa Talemaibua, the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Disaster Management, emphasized that the distribution of 10,000 calendars and educational materials represents a meaningful partnership focused on enhancing community awareness and readiness. These resources act as essential tools, serving 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 another 50,000 homes expected to receive educational materials this year. This widespread outreach demonstrates a strong commitment to ensuring that communities are better equipped to face the challenges posed by natural disasters.

The initiative aligns with recent government efforts advocating for increased household readiness and youth involvement in disaster risk management, highlighted by calls from officials like Minister Sakiasi Ditoka. By empowering young people and integrating preparedness practices into their daily lives, Fiji is making substantial strides toward safeguarding its citizens against the growing impacts of climate change.

In summary, the launch of disaster awareness materials is a hopeful step toward fostering a culture of resilience in Fiji. By focusing on education and collaboration, these initiatives not only aim to improve safety and awareness among the populace but also inspire confidence in the community’s ability to meet future challenges. As the nation prepares for the cyclone season, efforts like these are critical in contributing to a safer future for all Fijians.