In the current rainy season we are reminded of the importance of disaster mitigation integration in higher education, especially in tropical countries like Indonesia. Our country is vulnerable to various types of natural disasters, such as floods, landslides, droughts and extreme weather, which can have a huge impact on society and the environment.
Higher education plays a crucial role in improving people's awareness and ability to deal with disasters. By integrating disaster mitigation concepts in the curriculum, we can shape a generation that is more resilient and ready to face environmental challenges. However, disaster mitigation is not only about technical, but also about social and cultural aspects. A critical social perspective emphasizes the importance of understanding social vulnerability and how communities can build resilience.
In this context, higher education should focus on three activities. First, raising community awareness about disaster risk and the importance of mitigation. Second, building community resilience through education and training. Third, integrating local knowledge with scientific knowledge to improve the effectiveness of disaster mitigation.
Community Awareness of Disaster Risk and Mitigation
Raising public awareness about disaster risk and the importance of mitigation is crucial in the paradigm of the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). BNPB emphasizes the importance of disaster mitigation as an ongoing effort to reduce disaster risk, both through physical development as well as awareness and capacity building to deal with disaster threats.
In this context, disaster mitigation involves several strategies, including. Risk Mapping, which identifies disaster-prone areas to determine appropriate preventive measures. Socialization and Training, which provides counseling and training on disaster management measures to communities. Early Warning, which uses early warning systems to inform communities about potential disasters.
Qur'anic verses also emphasize the importance of awareness and preparedness in the face of disasters. In Surah Ali Imran verse 110, كُنْتُمْ خَيْرَ اُمَّةٍ اُخْرِجَتْ لِلنَّاسِ تَأْمُرُوْنَ بِالْمَعْرُوْفِ وَتَنْهَوْنَ عَنِ الْمُنْكَرِ وَتُؤْمِنُوْنَ بِالّٰهِۗ, it is confirmed that ”you are the best people born for mankind, enjoining the ma'ruf and forbidding the munkar, and believing in Allah”. Here, disaster mitigation can be seen as part of the effort to enjoin the ma'ruf (good) and prevent the munkar (evil), namely by reducing disaster risk and increasing public awareness.
Resilient Community
Building community resilience through education and training is essential. BNPB emphasizes the important role of local communities in improving local resilience and disaster risk management. They have the ability to mobilize local communities and their words are more likely to be heard.
Education and Training, which can be done, are: first, the Community-Based Disaster Risk Management (PRBBK) program. BNPB developed this program to improve community preparedness in facing disaster risks. Second, Basic Disaster Management Training. BNPB provides this training to increase the capacity of disaster management actors. Third, the Disaster Management Training Curriculum. BNPB has a comprehensive training curriculum to improve the community's ability to deal with disasters.
A resilient community can be considered a pious community, as they have taken steps to protect themselves and others from disaster risks. In Surah Az-Zumar Chapter 9, اَمَّنْ هُوَ قَانِتٌ اٰنَاۤءَ الَّيْلِ سَاجِدًا وَّقَاۤىِٕمًا يَّحْذَرُ الْاٰخِرَةَ وَيَرْجُوْا رَحْمَةَ رَبِّهٖۗ , We are reminded that “(are you the more fortunate of the polytheists) or the one who worships at night prostrate and standing, for fear of the Hereafter and in hope of his Lord's mercy.
Integration of Local and Scientific Knowledge
Integrating local knowledge with scientific knowledge is crucial in improving the effectiveness of disaster mitigation. BNPB emphasizes the importance of combining local wisdom with modern technology to develop a comprehensive and effective disaster management strategy. There are several benefits of integrating local and scientific knowledge, among others. First, suitability to local conditions. Local knowledge has evolved over centuries and is adapted to local environmental and social conditions, making disaster management strategies more effective. Second, cost-effectiveness. Local wisdom practices are often more cost-effective than modern technology. Third, community empowerment, which integrates local knowledge with scientific knowledge, thereby increasing community awareness and participation in disaster mitigation.
For example, traditional early warning systems in Indonesia that utilize natural signs, such as wind direction and animal behavior, have helped communities anticipate and prepare for disasters. Earthquake-resistant building construction that takes into account local architectural techniques, such as the construction of houses on stilts or sloping roofs, has reduced the risk of damage and casualties during earthquakes. By doing so, we can create communities that are better prepared and resilient in the face of disasters.
