In an important initiative aimed at bolstering disaster preparedness in Fiji, the Fiji Business Disaster Resilience Council, in conjunction with the National Disaster Risk Management Office, has launched new disaster awareness materials in Suva. This program specifically targets students from years 9 to 13 and their families, aligning with Fiji’s ongoing efforts to promote a culture of readiness as the cyclone season approaches.

Inoke Raikoso, Senior Education Officer from the Ministry of Education, articulated the challenges faced in fostering such a culture, particularly in communities that are vulnerable and where many school infrastructures are outdated, some dating back to the 1800s. This reality complicates the implementation of effective disaster preparedness strategies.

Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Disaster Management, Isoa Talemaibua, remarked on the significance of distributing these materials, emphasizing that the distribution of 10,000 calendars and educational resources is not merely logistical; it represents a commitment to nurturing readiness among individuals, families, and businesses throughout Fiji. These calendars and resources serve as daily reminders for families to enhance their awareness and preparedness for natural disasters.

The outreach of this campaign has been extensive. Over the past year, more than 50,000 homes and nearly 70,000 students have received these disaster awareness materials, with an additional 50,000 homes expected to benefit from similar initiatives this year. Such broad-based efforts underscore Fiji’s dedication to creating a resilient community capable of facing the challenges posed by natural disasters, especially as the cyclone season runs from November to April.

These proactive measures resonate with ongoing government campaigns encouraging household readiness and emphasizing the involvement of youth in disaster risk management. Minister Sakiasi Ditoka has been a strong advocate for these initiatives, highlighting the vital role families play in ensuring safety against natural calamities, particularly as climate change intensifies the risks faced by communities.

In summary, the launch of these disaster awareness materials marks a significant step forward in enhancing community resilience in Fiji. By integrating education into the daily lives of students and their families, this initiative fosters a culture of preparedness and collaboration. As the nation readies itself for the cyclone season, these efforts provide hope for a more informed and resilient society, better equipped to handle the challenges ahead and protect its most vulnerable populations.