Islamabad, In an innovative approach to enhancing disaster risk reduction awareness, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has unveiled a set of prize competitions aimed at engaging students across Pakistan. This initiative is part of the broader Pakistan International Expo on Disaster Risk Reduction (PEDRR) 2024, highlighting the country’s commitment to fostering a culture of preparedness and resilience.

According to National Disaster Management Authority, these competitions, spanning painting, photography, and disaster-resilient model creation, invite the youth to articulate their perspectives on various themes. These include Pakistan’s resilience against natural calamities, the challenges posed by climate change, human-induced disasters, effective risk reduction methodologies, and the vital role of technological innovations in disaster preparedness.

The contests promise attractive cash rewards for the winners, with the first, second, and third place recipients in each category receiving PKR 100,000, PKR 75,000, and PKR 50,000, respectively. Students above 18 years and currently enrolled in educational institutions are eligible to participate, with the submission deadline set for March 25, 2024.

Scheduled from April 23 to 25, 2024, at the Pak China Friendship Center, PEDRR 2024 is poised to be a landmark event, drawing participation from 44 countries, including members from the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, and NDMA’s international partners.

The expo is anticipated to be a pivotal gathering space for a diverse array of stakeholders, including international delegates, government representatives, policy experts, emergency response teams, and academic entities. Through a variety of exhibitions, seminars, discussions, and simulation exercises, the event aims to cultivate a collaborative platform for advancing global and regional discourse on disaster risk reduction strategies.