Mandela University lecturers undertook flood response training in Malawi as part of a collaboration with Rescue-SA and UK-ISAR. This program aimed to enhance rescue capabilities in Africa, addressing high drowning rates, especially among children. The acquired skills will be integrated into the University’s curriculum, fostering preparedness and effective response to future disasters.
Lecturers from Mandela University recently participated in flood response training in Malawi, facilitated by a collaboration with Rescue-SA and UK-ISAR. This program underscores the significance of enhancing rescue capacity across Africa, particularly following notable disaster responses, such as Cyclone Freddy in 2023.
The focus of this “Train-the-Trainer” program was to equip participants with strategic and tactical flood response skills, including powerboat rescue capabilities. This knowledge is intended to be shared within their respective institutions and communities, addressing the alarmingly high drowning rates in Africa, particularly in flood-affected areas.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that Africa experiences the highest drowning rates worldwide, leading to approximately 66,000 fatalities annually, particularly in rural and flood-prone regions. Vulnerable populations, especially children under five, are at considerable risk due to drowning incidents in natural water bodies and pools.
The escalation of flooding events, intensified by climate change, has amplified drowning incidents, particularly in informal settlements. The devastating effects of disasters such as Cyclone Freddy highlight the critical need for proficient aquatic rescue teams capable of effective operations during floods.
This training represents a significant advancement for Mandela University’s Department of Emergency Medical Care (EMC). It promises to provide extensive benefits to students and the broader emergency response network, through the integration of the practical skills and theoretical knowledge gained into the EMC curriculum.
Furthermore, the experience acquired during the sessions will inform the creation of new simulation-based learning modules, enabling students to engage in realistic rescue scenarios prior to their graduation. Participation in this initiative reinforces the University’s commitment to disaster response education and cultivates valuable partnerships for future collaborative projects in the region.
Mandela University’s involvement in flood response training exemplifies a commitment to enhancing disaster preparedness in Africa, particularly in the face of rising drowning rates exacerbated by climate change. The collaboration with Rescue-SA and UK-ISAR not only strengthens the academic curriculum but also prepares students for real-world emergency scenarios, thereby contributing positively to community safety and resilience in disaster-prone areas.
Original Source: news.mandela.ac.za
