Vanuatu Australia Education Support Program (VAESP) is enhancing disaster risk reduction in education, focusing on resilient school infrastructure, curriculum integration, and community awareness to safeguard students in a changing climate.
Tetra Tech International Development manages Vanuatu Australia Education Support Program (VAESP) on behalf of the Australian Government. The program’s central focus is on supporting the Ministry of Education and Training (MoET) in improving education in Vanuatu.
Climate change and disasters can have a devastating impact on education, and with the frequency and intensity of disasters on the rise, safeguarding students and ensuring access to education during challenging times has never been more critical. VAESP is partnering with the MoET in Vanuatu to enhance disaster risk reduction initiatives across Vanuatu’s education sector.
A commitment to inclusivity and resilience
Vanuatu’s commitment to combating climate change emphasises gender inclusivity and the principle of leaving no one behind. VAESP is actively supporting MoET in these efforts, focusing on building a resilient educational framework. This year, the collaborative team has developed a comprehensive Capital Work Plan for each province, prioritising the reconstruction and upgrading of school facilities. These plans are designed to ensure that educational institutions can withstand natural disasters such as cyclones and earthquakes, and provide students with safe learning environments.
Integrating disaster risk reduction into education
Recognising the essential role of education in disaster preparedness, MoET, with VAESP’s support, has integrated disaster risk reduction into the school curriculum. This is giving all students knowledge and skills to protect themselves, their families, and their communities during emergencies. By fostering a culture of preparedness among the youth, Vanuatu is leading the way in building a more resilient nation, where future generations are equipped to handle the challenges posed by natural disasters.
Raising awareness and promoting preparedness
The collaboration between VAESP and MoET extends beyond curriculum development. VAESP has also been instrumental in supporting MoET to raise community awareness about the importance of disaster preparedness. In 2023, the Ministry launched a campaign focused on preparing schools for the annual cyclone season, emphasising the significance of proactive measures in keeping people safe and protecting property. This initiative is set to be renewed and strengthened in 2024, ensuring the message of preparedness reaches more communities across Vanuatu.
Supporting education continuity during crises
VAESP’s commitment to the education sector also encompasses active participation in the Education Cluster, a Vanuatu Government initiative to ensure educational services remain available during and returning as quickly as possible after disasters. In October 2024, the Education Cluster convened to discuss strategies for enhancing preparedness across the sector.
VAESP also works to promote gender equality in disaster preparedness, advocating for the inclusion of all individuals in disaster readiness, response, and recovery efforts. This holistic approach fosters a safer and more resilient future for all students in Vanuatu.
Resilience through experience
VAESP’s support has proven invaluable during recent disaster responses, including two ashfalls, four tropical cyclones, and the COVID-19 pandemic. The program has worked diligently to support MoET in engaging with schools, parents, and students. This includes communications activities, and critical data collection and school assessments following destructive events, to ensure the education sector quickly adapts and responds to challenges.
Looking ahead
As Vanuatu continues to experience the realities of climate change, the partnership between VAESP and MoET will remain steadfast in its mission to enhance disaster risk preparedness in education. By prioritising safe school facilities, integrating disaster preparedness into curricula, and fostering inclusive participation, the partnership is paving the way for a resilient educational landscape. Together, VAESP and MoET are not just preparing for disasters, but are empowering future generations to thrive in the face of adversity.
Through these collective efforts, Vanuatu is taking significant strides towards a safer, more prepared, and resilient future for all its students.
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