ABSTRACT
This qualitative study aimed to determine the experiences of Disaster and Risk Reduction Management (DRRM) coordinators on school emergency response as basis for enhancement program. The research method utilized in the study was qualitative using in-depth interview and the design was phenomenology. DRRM coordinators experienced developing emergency response plans, training and capacity building, collaborating with stakeholders, response and coordination during emergencies, and evaluating and improving emergency response plans. The hindering factors were limited resources, lack of awareness and understanding, inadequate training and capacity building, limited coordination and collaboration, and communication barriers. The facilitating factors were supportive school leadership, adequate resources, collaboration and partnerships, training and capacity building and communication and information sharing. Training and capacity building, review and update emergency response plans, strengthen partnerships, raise awareness and conduct education campaigns and establish monitoring and evaluation mechanisms were the proposed enhancement program.
Keywords: Experiences, DRRM Coordinators, Emergency Response
INTRODUCTION
Disasters and emergency situations, such as natural disasters, fires, and other hazards, posed a significant threat to the safety and well-being of students, staff, and the community. In recent years, the frequency and severity of natural disasters increased, highlighting the need for effective disaster management and response strategies. Schools, in particular, had a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of students during emergency situations. As a result, it was important that schools had Disaster and Risk Reduction Management (DRRM) programs in place.
DRRM programs aimed to mitigate the impacts of disasters and emergency situations on schools, students, and the community. These programs included activities such as risk assessment, disaster preparedness planning, and emergency response and recovery. DRRM coordinators played a vital role in managing emergency situations in schools by developing, implementing, and maintaining DRRM programs. However, despite the importance of DRRM programs, there was a lack of research on the experiences of DRRM coordinators in managing school emergency response.
The study aimed to fill this gap by exploring the experiences of DRRM coordinators on school emergency response. The research focused on understanding the challenges and successes of DRRM coordinators and how these experiences could be used to enhance existing programs and develop new ones. The study provided valuable information for improving the preparedness and response of schools during emergency situations. By understanding the experiences of DRRM coordinators, schools could improve their ability to prepare for and respond to emergencies, ensuring the safety and well-being of all members of the school community.
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