EAST JAVA — Earthquakes, floods, or other natural disasters cannot be predicted by humans. However, preparedness can be a stronghold. Understanding the importance of this, Dompet Dhuafa East Java held a Disaster Safe School Socialisation at Sumbersari National Elementary School, Sumbersari Village, Sambeng District, Lamongan Regency, Saturday (16/11/2024). A total of 150 students enthusiastically participated in this activity while absorbing valuable knowledge and experience about disaster mitigation.
Hanafi, one of the teachers at Sumbersari National Elementary School, expressed his appreciation for the implementation of this activity. According to him, the simulation was very interesting for the students, making the material about disasters more vivid and easy to understand.
‘I am very happy for the arrival of Dompet Dhuafa and the team who were willing to come to our institution which is far from the city of Surabaya. This education is very useful, especially direct simulations that attract children’s attention,’ he said.
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This activity is not just a theory. Students are invited to practice directly what they have learnt. Starting from the correct way to evacuate, the use of first aid tools, to forming an orderly line during a disaster.
Agus, Dompet Dhuafa’s Programme Coordinator, said that Dompet Dhuafa East Java’s goal in holding this activity is to instil a culture of disaster awareness from an early age. With sufficient knowledge and skills, students are expected to become agents of change in their environment.
‘Understanding disasters in the educational environment is something that cannot be ignored. Every element of the school community must be prepared to face disaster risks,’ he explained.
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Learning while playing, that’s how Dompet Dhuafa makes disaster material fun. Through role plays and educational videos, students are invited to think critically and creatively in dealing with emergency situations.
The series of activities included the delivery of theory about the types of disasters, basic mitigation steps, to direct simulations of dealing with emergency situations. The students were taught how to act during a disaster, recognise evacuation routes, and perform first aid in an emergency. The methods used involved theoretical presentations, educational media such as videos and posters, as well as practical simulations in the field, so that students could understand the situation more realistically.
‘We hope that the children will not only gain disaster knowledge but also train their empathy and concern for others,’ added Agus.
Disaster Safe Schools are an important effort for Dompet Dhuafa to create a safe and comfortable learning environment for students. With this socialisation, it is hoped that Sumbersari National Elementary School can become an example for other schools in an effort to improve disaster preparedness.
Dompet Dhuafa is committed to continuing to contribute to disaster management efforts. Through various programmes, such as Disaster Safe Schools, Dompet Dhuafa hopes to build a community that is resilient and ready to face all challenges. (Dompet Dhuafa)
Text and photo: Riza Muthohar
Editor: Dhika