ECOWAS launches workshop for school educators to integrate disaster risk reduction in Guinea-Bissau

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has launched a pivotal workshop in Guinea-Bissau to equip school educators with skills to integrate Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) into the national curriculum. The three-day workshop, held at Hotel Dunia in Bissau from November 13 to 15, 2024, aims to prepare educators to mitigate the impacts of natural disasters on schools and communities, fostering resilience among future generations.

Ambassador Ngozi Ukaeje, ECOWAS Resident Representative in Guinea-Bissau, inaugurated the workshop on behalf of the Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs. In her opening remarks, she emphasized the role of education in disaster preparedness and its alignment with ECOWAS Vision 2050, which prioritizes building resilience across the region.

“This initiative underscores ECOWAS’ commitment to sustainable development and disaster preparedness through education, ensuring safer communities and schools for generations to come,” said Ukaeje.

The event also featured remarks by His Excellency José Carlos Macedo Monteiro, Secretary of State of the Public Order, who praised ECOWAS’ consistent support for disaster management in Guinea-Bissau, including a $670,902 humanitarian aid package after the 2022 floods. Monteiro stressed the importance of training educators and communities to minimize disaster risks and improve recovery efforts.

Inspector-General of Education Mamadu Banjai represented the Ministry of National Education, Higher Education, and Scientific Research. He highlighted the urgency of addressing Guinea-Bissau’s vulnerability to natural disasters, lauding the collaboration between ECOWAS and local institutions to incorporate DRR principles into education.

The workshop aligns with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, which advocates for integrating disaster education into school curricula. By training 35 educators from various school levels, ECOWAS aims to empower schools as agents of change in fostering disaster-resilient societies.

This initiative marks a significant step towards ECOWAS’ broader goal of promoting safety, sustainability, and development across West Africa, ensuring communities are better prepared to face future challenges.