Universitas Kristen Duta Wacana (UKDW) Yogyakarta is actively contributing to a multi-helix collaboration supporting government efforts to promote inclusive disaster mitigation in the Yogyakarta Special Region (DIY). This initiative was highlighted by UKDW Rector, Dr.-Ing. Wiyatiningsih, S.T., M.T., during the 5th Congress of the Disaster Risk Reduction Forum (FPRB) DIY on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at the DIY Representative Office of the Regional Representative Council (DPD RI).
As a keynote speaker, Dr. Wiyatiningsih emphasized the importance of collaboration among the government, community groups, and the private sector in implementing the Disaster Awareness Community (DAC) program. “This synergy strengthens efforts to build communities that live in harmony with disaster risks. Establishing disaster-aware communities is essential to continuously improve their preparedness and response capabilities,” she noted.
UKDW has integrated disaster management into its core activities, encompassing research, community outreach, and academic curricula. Disaster education is a prominent feature of the Master of Architecture program. “Additionally, UKDW has established multidisciplinary research centers focused on inclusivity and disaster studies, such as the Center for Disability and Inclusive Design Studies and the Center for Disaster Risk Management and Sustainable Development,” Dr. Wiyatiningsih explained.
Beyond academia, UKDW has played a vital role in fostering Disaster Awareness and Resilient Communities. This includes developing a web-based application titled “Disaster-Resilient Church Map in Palu and Yogyakarta,” a product of its thematic community service program on disaster mitigation (KKN Tematik Kebencanaan). The application helps local communities enhance their preparedness and vigilance in disaster-prone areas.
In collaboration with the Yakkum Emergency Unit (YEU), UKDW has also introduced an Inclusive Emergency Medical Shelter model for disaster victims and a prototype self-evacuation route system for the Merapi Rescue Community (MRC). These projects demonstrate UKDW’s dedication to innovative and inclusive disaster response measures.
“UKDW is also collaborating with seven universities under the Indonesian Christian Higher Education Cooperation Agency (BK-PTKI) on research and community outreach focused on disaster resilience, sustainable development, and inclusivity,” she added.
The FPRB DIY, comprising local government agencies, civil society organizations, and academic institutions, serves as a strategic platform for multi-stakeholder coordination in disaster risk reduction. The 5th FPRB DIY Congress, themed ‘Togetherness, Unity, Collaboration, and Usefulness,’ embodies the spirit of collective action and solidarity—key elements in tackling disaster challenges.
This forum aims to enhance community preparedness, paving the way for a disaster-resilient Yogyakarta. [humasukdw/trans.drr]