On October 13, at the University of Education, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment coordinated with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) in Vietnam to organize a rally to respond to the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction and the ASEAN Day for Disaster Management.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Nguyen Hoang Hiep affirmed a strong message: Education is not only the foundation of knowledge, but also the foundation of resilience against natural disasters.
The students of the Pedagogical University are not only learners, but also a source of strong inspiration. In their hands are not only chalk and blackboards but also a whole generation of young Vietnamese. A small lecture on disaster prevention can save a life, an extracurricular session on survival skills can create calmness in times of trouble, a story of recovery after a storm can light up faith in the future.
Ms. Pauline Tamesis, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Vietnam, emphasized positive results in cooperation in responding to natural disaster risks. Photo: Phuong Linh.According to Ms. Pauline Tamesis, UN Resident Coordinator in Vietnam, the organization is committed to ensuring the participation of young people in decision-making processes. At the same time, it expands opportunities for Vietnamese youth to participate in community-based climate and risk reduction initiatives.
“Investing in Vietnamese youth is investing in a country that is resilient to natural disasters. Let's join hands to equip the next generation with the necessary knowledge and capacity to confidently face emerging challenges”, she encouraged.
Mr. Ziad Nabulsi, Acting UNICEF Representative in Vietnam, emphasized that investment in education is the most sustainable investment to combat climate change and reduce disaster risks. Photo: Phuong Linh.Mr. Ziad Nabulsi, Acting UNICEF Representative in Viet Nam, expressed his deep sympathy for the damage caused by natural disasters and floods after Storm No. 11. In this context, he emphasized: A resilient Viet Nam is one where schools are safe and learning continues even in emergencies. Teachers need to be fully equipped to teach disaster risk reduction, and children’s voices need to be heard to shape climate and disaster policies.
Mr. Nguyen Hoang Hiep, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment, delivered the opening speech at the event. Photo: Phuong Linh.The leader of the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment emphasized: “We need to strengthen cooperation and empower young people to the maximum through education and coping skills. Because every small action of an individual today is a brick that builds the strong resilience of the community tomorrow. With the spirit of Solidarity - Creativity - Pioneering, I believe that together we will create a safer future, not only for Vietnam but also for the entire ASEAN region.”
At the event, outstanding students shared about the role of disaster management education and spread the innovative initiatives that the young generation of Vietnam is implementing. These ideas not only demonstrate a sense of responsibility but also contribute to building a resilient community that adapts to climate change.