Lalitpur Students Ignite Community Awareness on Disaster Risk Reduction for better prepared and resilient community
On January 10, a vibrant community-based awareness program focused on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) took place in Ward 19, Lalitpur, organized by the dedicated students of Bhassara School. This event aimed to raise awareness about the risks associated with natural disasters. It was honored by the presence of notable guests, including Deputy Mayor Ms. Manjalai Shakya Bajracharya, Executive Director of Informal Sector Service Center (INSEC) Mr. Bijay Raj Gautam, a representative from JICA, and local ward chairpersons.This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance disaster resilience within the community. The students, having received training from their teachers through a program supported by the Informal Sector Service Center (INSEC), JICA Nepal, Plus Arts, and City Net – Japan, spearheaded the establishment of a DRR Club at their school. This club aims to cultivate a culture of disaster preparedness among youth, enabling students to share the knowledge they acquired with their peers and the local community. Given Nepal’s vulnerability to earthquakes and other natural disasters, such programs are crucial for equipping communities to manage emergencies effectively. During the event, members of the DRR Club set up interactive stalls that engaged community members through games and demonstrations. These stalls covered essential topics such as earthquake preparedness, fire safety, landslide awareness, flood response, disease prevention (including dengue), and emergency preparedness essentials like packing an emergency bag.
The program received enthusiastic support from both the local community and distinguished guests. Deputy Mayor Shakya praised the students and the community’s proactive efforts in advancing disaster risk reduction initiatives. She emphasized the importance of integrating disaster preparedness into daily life, particularly in regions prone to natural hazards. Mr. Bijay Raj Gautam echoed this sentiment, highlighting the significance of educating younger generations. He stated “These students are not just future leaders but active participants in making our communities safer today. This program serves as a model for other regions.” Parents of participating students also engaged with the stalls, taking part in demonstrations and activities that reinforced the importance of disaster preparedness at home. Their involvement was pivotal in encouraging families to adopt these lessons into their daily lives. The event garnered attention from international media, including NHK TV Japan, which documented the community program. This coverage further spotlighted the collaborative efforts between local schools, communities, and international organizations in building disaster resilience.
In summary, the DRR Community Awareness Program in Ward 19 exemplifies how youth-led initiatives can foster safer and more informed communities. Through ongoing collaboration and education efforts, Lalitpur aims to strengthen its resilience against natural disasters while empowering its youth to lead these vital initiatives.
Jagannath Kandel
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