The Center for Disaster Studies of IPB University Establishes Regional Cooperation
The Center for Disaster Studies (PSB), Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM) IPB University began to pioneer regional cooperation. For the initial stage, the Head of the PSB, Dr. Yonvitner and the Secretary of the PSB, Dr. Perdinan visited several institutions to initiate cooperation in the scope of ASEAN. Namely SEARCA, International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) and the Philippines Resilience Institute.
"PSB and SEARCA agreed to joint training programs in the field of disaster. There are three agendas we discussed, namely disaster capacity building training for universities, government, and the community. Furthermore, it is supporting graduate school research for students in ASEAN countries and supporting plans to strengthen ASEAN or regional disaster resilience programs as part of a joint program in ASEAN for disaster," said Dr. Yonvitner, Head of PSB when accepted at SEARCA’s Graduate Scholarship Program Maria Cristeta Cuaresma.
For CIAT, PSB plans to collaborate in climate adaptation and disaster research in the agricultural sector. The subject of the discussion included strengthening the supply chain and agricultural productivity. On this occasion, the PSB team discussed the joint research program opportunities with the CIAT team represented by James Ellison, Leo Kris M Palao, Joshua Martin Santos as well as post-graduated student research exchanges.
Meanwhile, based on the results of discussions with the Director of the Philippines Resilience Institute, Prof. Genaro A Cuaresma, the two parties will strengthen the disaster institutes in Malaysia, the Philippines, and Indonesia (MAPHILINDO). Prof. Genaro encouraged the importance of regional cooperation because lately events and disaster risks have increased.
"We are aware that disaster management requires regional cooperation and a more adaptive approach. Furthermore, we also agree to exchange students who conduct disaster research, share modality and disaster control instruments and exchange programs in the field of disaster," said Dr. Yonvitner.
On this occasion, Dr. Perdinan also explained his experience (share knowledge) on climate disaster and prediction to the University of Philipines (UP) student network, which was attended by 16 members of the University of the Philippines, ASEAN, India, and Japan.
"This program is at the same time part of PSB IPB University's efforts to contribute to the regional level in the field of disaster. PSB will continue to coordinate and strengthen regional cooperation. A small step but needed to get greater benefits for the community and as a form of the integrity of our innovation to the community," said Dr. Yonvitner. (IAAS/YN)
