Bornova Municipality, recognized for its forward-thinking approach to disaster management, has successfully implemented another vital training initiative aimed at maximizing community resilience across the district. A comprehensive “Basic Disaster Awareness Training” session was organized for all teachers working at the Bornova Municipality Youth Education Center (BELGEM), a center dedicated to equal opportunities in education.

The training took place at BELGEM’s central building in Çamdibi and was designed to reach thousands of students—and, through them, their families—by creating a multiplier effect. The session was delivered by Sinancan Öziçer, Head of Disaster Affairs at Bornova Municipality and President of the İzmir Branch of the Chamber of Geophysical Engineers (TMMOB).

Disaster Awareness to Extend from Classrooms to Homes

The training covered in detail the essential precautions to take before a disaster, the correct responses to adopt when every second counts during an emergency, and evacuation and initial response strategies to implement in its aftermath. Alongside theoretical information, practical exercises were also demonstrated. The aim is for teachers to pass these critical skills on to their students, creating a ripple effect of disaster awareness throughout the community.

Öziçer: “What We Learn Must Be Shared with Others”

Sinancan Öziçer, Head of Disaster Affairs at Bornova Municipality and President of the İzmir Branch of the Chamber of Geophysical Engineers, who led the training, emphasized that the awareness gained must become part of a vital chain of knowledge, stating:

“We cannot predict when disasters will strike, but we can determine how prepared we are. It is critically important that the information we have shared with BELGEM’s educators does not remain confined to this room. When our teachers pass on what they have learned to their students, and those students share it with their families and communities, disaster awareness across our district will grow exponentially. Our educators are the strongest link in this chain of awareness.”

Mayor Eşki: “Preparedness Is the Greatest Lifesaver During a Disaster”

Ömer Eşki, Mayor of Bornova, who aims to make Bornova a safe and resilient city in every respect, highlighted the importance of fostering disaster awareness from an early age:

“The better prepared we are for earthquakes and similar natural events, the more we can reduce casualties and damage. Our valued teachers at BELGEM are pioneers of this vital transformation in our schools. By instilling in children the knowledge and response skills they have gained here, they will help make Bornova’s future much safer in the face of disasters. Sharing knowledge and providing the right education are our greatest lifesavers when disaster strikes. Together with the educators of tomorrow, we will build a resilient Bornova.”