Gia Lai, 20 January 2026 – On 20 January, the Department of Dyke Management and Disaster Prevention and Control (under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), coordinated with Tam Quan Bac Secondary School to organize a disaster preparedness drill for students and teachers.

The activity aimed to enhance awareness, knowledge, and disaster response skills among teachers and students, contributing to a safer, more proactive school environment amid increasing disaster risks driven by climate change.

The drill programme included three main components: a coordination mechanism exercise; a multi-hazard evacuation drill; and first aid simulations integrated into the evacuation process, alongside the activation of early warning systems in emergencies.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Nguyen Van Tien, Deputy Director General of the Department of Dyke Management and Disaster Prevention and Control, stated, “Strengthening disaster response capacity starting from schools is a critical foundation for ensuring the safety of students and building a proactive and resilient society in the face of disasters and climate change.”

Mr. Vu Thai Truong, Head of Climate Change and Environment Unit at UNDP Viet Nam, emphasized, “Disasters can occur unexpectedly, but early preparation, beginning in the school environment, helps students remain calmer and safer, while contributing to building long-term resilience for communities.”

“Through the drill, students practiced following instructions, coordinating under teachers’ guidance, and maintaining calm in emergency situations. The exercise also provided an opportunity for the school to assess coordination and management capacity, and to draw lessons to further improve disaster response plans tailored to real conditions,” shared Mr. Trinh Van Siem of Tam Quan Bac Secondary School.

Through the drill, students were equipped with essential skills, including early risk identification, staying calm, following teachers’ instructions, supporting peers, and properly conducting evacuations and administering first aid. These practical skills not only help protect students themselves but can also extend to their families and communities.

The drill at Tam Quan Bac Secondary School is part of broader efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness and response at the community level, starting from schools where knowledge, skills, and safety awareness are shaped for future generations.

Since 16 January 2026, a total of 1,000 participants, including students, teachers, and relevant stakeholders, have taken part in drills at Cat Chanh, Hoai Hai, Cat Tien, and Tam Quan Bac secondary schools.

For media inquires, please contact:

Phan Huong Giang   
UNDP Media and Communications Analyst, Climate Change, Energy and Environment 
Email: phan.huong.giang@undp.org 
Mobile: 0948466688