Islamabad, National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has launched an e-learning toolkit aimed at enhancing Disability-Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (DI-DRR) for vulnerable communities with disabilities. This initiative was introduced at NDMA’s National Emergency Operations Centre, with participation from high-ranking officials and representatives from the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) and the Special Talent Exchange Program (STEP).

According to Press Information Department, the launch event featured insights from NDMA Chairman Lt General Inam Haider Malik and the country heads of UNESCAP and STEP in Pakistan. Key speakers including Ms. Aiko Akiyama of UNESCAP, Muhammad Atif Sheikh, founder and CEO of STEP, and Ms. Abia Akram, Director Programs at STEP, highlighted the toolkit’s utility in addressing the specific needs of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) during disasters.

The toolkit is designed as a comprehensive resource to equip disaster management professionals with necessary skills for effectively managing disasters in a way that includes all members of the community, particularly those with disabilities. It also aims to integrate these practices into existing disaster management frameworks through training sessions and workshops.

This effort not only aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, especially Goal 11, which focuses on creating inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and communities, but also underscores NDMA’s commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind in disaster preparedness and response scenarios.

The toolkit will be available on the NEOC’s official platform, facilitating its use across various disaster management contexts and ensuring a more inclusive approach to disaster risk management.