Universitas Andalas (Unand), the National Disaster Management Agency\n(BNPB), and the Australian Government have partnered to strengthen\ndisaster preparedness and resilience through integrated research,\neducation, and the development of a disaster studies centre.<\/p>\n
Unand\u2019s rector, Efa Yonnedi, stated in Padang on Sunday that the\ncollaboration is a strategic step towards building a sustainable\ndisaster management ecosystem, particularly for Sumatra, which is highly\nvulnerable to geological and hydro-meteorological disasters.<\/p>\n
Through a BNPB 2025 grant, Unand will develop research on megathrust\nearthquake threats in Sumatra, with an output being a book titled\n\u201cOverview of Sumatra Megathrust Threats\u201d.<\/p>\n
The grant will also support the International Conference on Disaster\nManagement and Mitigation, serving as a platform for scientific\ncollaboration and idea exchange to enhance disaster mitigation.<\/p>\n
For 2026\u20132027, research will expand to advanced megathrust studies\nand a book on hydro-meteorological disasters, in response to rising\ndisaster incidents in Sumatra in recent years.<\/p>\n
Yonnedi emphasised that universities bear significant responsibility\nin providing innovative and scholarly research to support national\ndisaster policy-making. Given Indonesia\u2019s numerous natural disaster\nthreats, preparedness must be a key component of development.<\/p>\n
\u201cUniversities play a strategic role in delivering research and\ninnovations that inform policy decisions,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
He added that Unand is preparing to become a university adaptable to\ndisaster challenges through strengthened academic programmes and\nresearch centres relevant to community needs.<\/p>\n
Strengthening the disaster management ecosystem must be sustained to\nensure Indonesia has strong resilience against natural threats, which is\nvital not only for public safety but also for maintaining development\nstability and boosting investor confidence.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, BNPB Secretary-General Rustian stressed that future\ndisaster policies must be based on ground realities to ensure mitigation\nand response efforts are effective, targeted, and sustainable.<\/p>\n
\u201cDisaster policies and mitigation must be built on ground conditions\nto be effective and targeted,\u201d he said.<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/unand-bnpb-and-australia-collaborate-on-integrated-disaster-research-1780359523", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }