University forges links in disaster risk reduction in South-East Asia and the Pacific region
GeoData is excited to announce a new partnership between the Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre (ADPC) and the University of Southampton.
Prof. Craig Hutton visited Bangkok to formalise a commitment for a growing collaboration around research and educational activities that will help address environment and sustainability challenges in the South-East Asia and the Pacific region.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between ADPC and the University of Southampton which will foster collaborative research focusing on geoinformatics, water resources, food systems, climate and resilience and joint capacity enhancement activities.
The Director of GeoData, Chris Hill and the Executive Director of ADPC, Hans Guttman, had been due to sign this in person in the ADPC offices in Bangkok, but due to Covid-19 restrictions this process was delayed. Chris said “I am delighted we have finally been able to meet with Mr Hans Guttman and formalise the partnership, to build the stronger connections. I am grateful to my colleague, Prof Craig Hutton of GeoData representing the University, who was able to be there and to meet with ADPC colleagues”.
ADPC promotes safer communities and sustainable development through disaster risk reduction and by responding to the Disaster Risk Reduction / Disaster Risk Management needs of countries and communities in Asia and the Pacific by raising awareness, helping to establish and strengthen sustainable institutional mechanisms, enhancing knowledge and skills, and facilitating the exchange of information and experience.
Prof. Hutton added, “A genuine opportunity exists for the University of Southampton to work with a high impact partner in disaster risk reduction in the region”.
GeoData staff have been working with ADPC to support programme development and developing proposals to international donors on water and food security in the Asia and the Pacific region, particularly in relation to climate change. This MoU will strengthen and broaden the areas of collaboration and create knowledge exchange opportunities for University of Southampton staff and students.
Contact:
Chris Hill, Director of GeoData, School of Geography and Environmental Science