Reducing Disaster Risks via youth education
As we observe the 2024 International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, the increasing destruction caused by disasters, especially those linked to climate change, is a stark reminder of the challenges we face. The theme for this year highlights the critical role of education in equipping and protecting young people for a future less impacted by disasters.
The UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) emphasized that disasters are growing in both frequency and impact, with children and youth disproportionately affected. Since 2022, over 400 million students globally have faced school closures due to extreme weather events. In low-income countries, students miss an average of 18 school days annually due to the climate crisis, in contrast to just 2.4 days in wealthier nations.
More than 1 billion children’s lives have been disrupted by disasters since 2000, with over 80,000 schools either damaged or destroyed. In response, the UNDRR has called for countries to strengthen efforts in risk management education, particularly for young people, who deserve protection not only at home but especially at school. Schools must promote a culture of disaster prevention and empower students to understand and act on the risks they face.
Kamal Kishore, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Disaster Risk Reduction, stressed the importance of constructing schools that can withstand disasters and retrofitting existing structures to be more resilient. He also advocated for educating youth about the hazards in their environment, urging that they be equipped with knowledge to safeguard themselves and spread awareness within their communities.
Globally, many nations lack the infrastructure and emergency preparedness necessary to minimize the impact of disasters. The United States, despite its advanced systems, recently faced tragic consequences as Hurricane Milton devastated parts of Florida, resulting in 17 deaths and widespread destruction. Similarly, in Africa, including Nigeria, the preparedness to tackle climate-related disasters remains inadequate.
According to the World Risk Poll, 30% of the global population has experienced a natural disaster in the past five years, with floods being the most prevalent. Tragically, many people, particularly in rural and underdeveloped areas, receive no warning when disasters strike. Relief International reports that in 2023 alone, nearly 87,000 people lost their lives to natural hazards, affecting millions worldwide.
The situation is especially dire in Africa. Currently, only 40% of the continent is covered by early warning systems, which are often compromised. The economic toll of weather-related disasters on Africa’s GDP is significant, with droughts and floods reducing growth by an average of 0.7% and 0.4% respectively between 1990 and 2019.
In Nigeria, the challenges are immense. Recent floods in Borno State displaced over 400,000 people and claimed the lives of 30, underscoring the vulnerability of communities. UNICEF has warned that more than 1.5 million Nigerian children are at risk of waterborne diseases due to severe flooding.
As the UNDRR advocates, the way forward is clear: countries must invest in resilient infrastructure and economies while preparing youth for a disaster-resilient future. Nigeria, in particular, should heed these calls by integrating disaster risk reduction into educational systems, especially through initiatives like the Safe School Program. Schools must not only be protected from insecurity but also be disaster-proof, capable of withstanding both natural and man-made hazards.
Governments at all levels need to prioritize climate change awareness, early warning systems, and investments in technologies that provide timely alerts. Swift evacuation plans, safe shelters, and transparent use of ecological funds are essential to ensure communities are better prepared for future challenges.
By empowering our youth through education and action, we can build a more resilient and disaster-prepared future for everyone.
