QRCS’ disaster management course for volunteers concludes
Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) has concluded a basic disaster management training course for 18 volunteers.
Instructed by 10 specialised trainers and six assistant trainers, the oneweek event is part of QRCS’ annual training schedule aimed at building the capacity of youth and other society members on disaster preparedness, response and risk reduction, according to a press statement.
During the event, the participants were introduced to a number of disaster management topics in keeping with international standards and concepts. This included a general overview of QRCS and the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.
Other topics covered by the course included disaster management, Sphere Project, logistics, risk analysis, psychosocial support, field assessment and coordination, media in emergencies, restoring family links, water and sanitation, health in emergencies, nutrition and food security, and shelter and registration.
Held at QRCS’ Disaster Management Centre, the purpose of the course was to inform the trainees about the definition of disaster and the basics of being ready for, and dealing with a disaster. Also, the trainees were prepared to take part in the Disaster Management Camp (DMC).
The strategy of training involved theoretical lectures, practice and group learning to ensure the best outcomes for all the participants, the statement noted. The trainees received formal certificates of participation at the end of the course.
Ahmed al-Khulaifi, head of the Volunteers Section at QRCS, said: “Our annual strategy seeks to enhance the skills of volunteers through a training programme in disaster management, first aid, the International Humanitarian Law and human development.
“This course is aimed at giving our new volunteers theoretical and field experiences, with a clear vision inspired by QRCS’ strategy of maximising the outcomes of volunteering.”
He added, “This course is part of a larger disaster preparedness programme conducted by QRCS to enhance community preparedness skills. Every year, no less than 100 trainees are graduated. They are ready to be deployed on relief missions with our foreign offices.”