School-Based Disaster Risk Reduction (SBDRR) Training in Bobonaro
As part of the Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Program, G-SIG, in support by World Vision Timor-Leste (WVTL), conducted a School-Based Disaster Risk Reduction (SBDRR) training for primary school students from three schools in Bobonaro Municipality. This initiative was implemented under the Disaster READY Project, funded by the Australian Government.
Over three days, the Association of Geographic Information System Group (G-SIG) delivered comprehensive training to students on fundamental disaster risk concepts. The sessions covered the development of historical disaster calendars for their villages, seasonal calendars for their communities, and group discussions to identify high-risk areas within their schools. Additionally, students explored mitigation and prevention strategies to reduce disaster risks.
A key component of the training was the establishment of School Disaster Response Teams (SDRT) in each school. G-SIG provided guidance on forming these teams and conducted specialized training on their roles and responsibilities. The primary objective of the program was to enhance the understanding of both students and teachers regarding disaster risk management while equipping them with practical strategies to mitigate and respond to natural disasters effectively.
Bobonaro Municipality is one of the most disaster-prone regions in Timor-Leste, frequently experiencing landslides, floods, and strong winds. Data from the Ministry of Education (2023) indicated that numerous schools in the municipality sustained severe damage due to natural disasters, leading to the loss of classrooms and essential facilities. Furthermore, in the same year, 51 households were affected by natural calamities, with 21 homes completely destroyed, 10 partially damaged, and 27 sustaining minor damage, according to the Secretary of State for Civil Protection.
In January 2024, heavy rainfall and strong winds exacerbated the situation, impacting 20 households and causing significant infrastructure damage, including the disruption of water supply transmission lines, which affected water distribution to local communities.
This training initiative was successfully implemented with the strong support of World Vision Timor-Leste (WVTL) and project implementing partner NGO HADEER.
The impact of the training was evident in the enthusiasm of the students: “We will create our own historical disaster calendars for our villages and keep them at home. We will also support our parents and friends when disasters occur,” shared one of the student participants.
By empowering students with knowledge and practical tools, this initiative contributes to building resilient communities capable of effectively responding to and mitigating disaster risks.