As a step to educate the upcoming generations on environmental issues, a workshop on Ecosystem-based Disaster Risk Reduction in Tropics was held in collaboration with UGM and its global network of universities. The great course of this program was for students from different background to mingle and share their knowledge, interest and culture in a positive light.
A warm welcome gesture by the organizers, 14th August 2017 officially marked the first day of EcoDRR program. An opening ceremony was held in the Faculty of Geography’s auditorium upon welcoming all the participants of EcoDRR 2017, followed by a small photo session. It was very delightful to see so many new faces as I was quite shocked with the numbers of the actual participants in total. It was shocking, because I only thought the participants are those who were staying at the Cakra hotel so it was a funny misunderstanding.
The first lecture of the day was given by Prof.Dr.Sunil Kumar on Disaster Risk Management on Tropics: Geomorphological Perspective. In his lecture, he gave us a slight introduction on the workshop related terms and went on with his lecture. From his lecture, I understand that Eco-DRR is important in sustainable management, conservation and restoration of ecosystems to reduce disaster risk, with the aim to attain sustainable and resilient development of every regions.
Followed by lunch break, the session continued with Prof.Dr.Junun Sartohadi lecture on Ecosystem-Based Disaster Management. This lecture session proposed the students to understand on the concept of environment and ecosystem as well as on creating awareness of any ecosystem instruments and approaches for disaster risk reduction.
A much needed coffee break was highly enjoyable with hot self-serving coffee and snacks and it instantly become a hotspot for the participants to mingle and to get to know about each other. And special thanks to Mr.Roy, one of the participant from Philippines on his good heart to share some dry mango snacks from his mainland with us.
Our day continued with the last lecture of the day by Dr.Dyah R.Hizbaron on Vulnerability analysis. As a measure to assure safer and sustainable development, Vulnerability analysis is regarded as an important element to convey critical input informations to the risk-based spatial plan and in designing effective & efficient policies in the future. Generally it’s like a risk index which urges people on “what to do and not to do” to minimize impact of disasters.
Amazing food accompanied by good souls, UGM’s EcoDRR is starting with a win in our hearts. With friendly host community and the newly formed friendships, the day is worth to be remembered and yes, Indonesia is #wonderfulindonesia. With full enthusiasm, looking forward for upcoming 12 more days. Chayok!
By,
Hasshviny.S
Participant from UPM,Malaysia.