Lecturers from Mandela University engaged in flood response training in Malawi, led by UK-ISAR and Rescue-SA. The program aimed to enhance disaster response skills, addressing high drowning rates in Africa. It will enrich the University’s Emergency Medical Care curriculum and foster international collaborative projects.
Lecturers from Mandela University recently participated in specialized flood response training in Malawi, facilitated by UK-ISAR through Rescue-SA. This collaboration aims to enhance disaster response capabilities across Africa, following prior cooperative efforts during events such as Cyclone Freddy in 2023.
The “Train-the-Trainer” program aimed to equip participants with strategic and tactical skills specific to flood response, including powerboat operations. The knowledge gained is intended to be disseminated within their respective institutions and communities, targeting the rising drowning rates in Africa, which have been aggravated by floods and inadequate rescue services.
Statistics from the World Health Organization indicate that Africa experiences the highest drowning rates globally, with approximately 66,000 fatalities each year, particularly in rural areas vulnerable to flooding. The incidence rate translates to 2.54 deaths per 100,000 people annually, with children under five being the most susceptible to drowning incidents.
The increasing severity of floods, intensified by climate change, substantially contributes to drowning fatalities, especially in informal settlements. Disasters like Cyclone Freddy have underscored the critical necessity for well-trained aquatic rescue teams able to operate effectively in flood-affected regions.
This training represents a significant advancement for Mandela University and its Department of Emergency Medical Care (EMC). The insights gained will be woven into the EMC academic curriculum, equipping students with contemporary flood rescue techniques. Additionally, new simulation-based learning modules will be developed, allowing students to engage in practical rescue exercises prior to graduation.
Furthermore, this initiative bolsters the University’s commitment to disaster response education and cultivates strategic partnerships with global entities such as UK-ISAR and Rescue-SA. Such collaborations pave the way for future training, exchanges, and cooperative projects throughout the region.
The participation of Mandela University lecturers in flood response training in Malawi, organized by UK-ISAR and Rescue-SA, highlights the urgent need for enhanced disaster management education in Africa. By focusing on practical skills and collaborative learning, this initiative not only addresses high drowning rates but also fosters global partnerships aimed at improving emergency response capacities. As a result, the University is poised to significantly contribute to disaster response education and the preparedness of future professionals.
Original Source: news.mandela.ac.za
