With the increasing impact of disasters every year, how can we ensure safe learning and teaching in schools?
Students in Nepal examine a 'hazard and resource' mural at their school.
Since 2000, disaster events have affected the lives of more than 1 billion children and caused damage to over 80,000 schools. In recent times, the impact of disasters has been increasing annually.
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The Sendai Framework also recognizes children and youth as agents of change. In Nepal, we have witnessed the swift mobilization of the young generation during past disasters, where they took the lead in rescue and relief efforts with great enthusiasm. Being at the forefront of new technologies and environments, youth and children are full of fresh ideas, energy, and enthusiasm.
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To empower children and youth as agents of change, education, skill development, leadership opportunities, and the use of technology are essential. Since they spend most of their active time in school, teachers serve as sources of inspiration and support, playing a foundational role. As a result, children and youth become more accustomed to activities they engage in at school, learn from their teachers, and collaborate with their peers, shaping their personal, behavioral, and professional development.
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To make youth groups more active and foster a collaborative environment, building a network with various stakeholders and providing technological and financial support opportunities can enable children and youth to become even more effective agents of change. By ensuring their participation in policy-making processes, they can be encouraged to take on future leadership roles. Development activities led by risk-informed youth are certain to contribute to disaster resilience.
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