On October 31, 2024, the Bangladesh Preparedness Partnership (BPP) organized a significant workshop in Dhaka to commemorate the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR). Aligned with this year’s theme, the event was titled “Bangladesh Preparedness Partnership (BPP): Building a Resilient Future through Empowering Youth.” It emphasized the critical role of education in preparing the next generation to face disaster challenges and highlighted the importance of academic involvement in disaster risk reduction. Hosted by the Academic Sector of BPP, which includes two prominent universities—Dhaka University and BRAC University—the event aimed to foster collaboration among academic institutions dedicated to disaster preparedness and resilience.

The workshop was facilitated by youth and faculty members and involved group work with participants from four sectoral partners of BPP, contributing to disaster preparedness and the formation of an Academic Network. Dr. Mohammad Moniruzzaman Khan, Director of the Institute of Disaster Management and Vulnerability Studies (IDMVS) at the University of Dhaka, presided over the inaugural session, while Mr. Kamrul Hasan, Secretary of MoDMR, attended as Chief Guest. Mr. Hasan stated, "This gathering of university youth and academia beyond Dhaka will significantly boost local disaster preparedness and management activities. We are committed to implementing the recommendations from this workshop." Special guest Ms. Lutfun Nahar, Joint Secretary, MoDMR, highlighted the energy of youth as a driving force for inclusive disaster preparedness. Insights from faculty members, including  Chief Guest Mr. Kamrul Hasan, ndc, Secretary of MoDMR (center in the first row), joins the participants for a group photo

The technical session, conducted by Professor Mahbuba Nasreen, academic sector lead, BPP, stressed the necessity of national collaboration in disaster management. Mohammad Ferdous from BRAC University, Dr. Tuhin Roy from Khulna University, reinforced the importance of integrating academic research into practical disaster strategies. and Dr. Muhammad Ahsan Ullah from ADPC contributed insights on the importance of integrating academic research into practical disaster management strategies.

Collaborative group work facilitated meaningful exchanges between youth and sectoral partners, emphasizing the need for collective efforts in disaster preparedness

Young researchers showcased innovative projects, setting the stage for discussions on youth involvement in building resilient communities.Shaila Shabnam Richi (1st from left, a first year students of IDMVS, University of Dhaka showcased innovative projects during the workshop 

The workshop effectively showcased the pivotal role of youth in disaster risk reduction and resilience-building, setting the stage for future collaborations.