United Kingdom continues working with Guatemala on prevention and mitigation of natural disasters
World Vision and the British Embassy strengthen local capacities for prevention and mitigation against natural disasters in San Pedro Yepocapa, Chimaltenango.
Both institutions are implementing a project aimed at training teachers and students in preparation for disaster risk. San Pedro Yepocapa, Chimaltenango, is one of the communities affected by the eruption of the Volcano of Fire (Fuego) more than a year ago.
It is expected that an innovative process of risk training will be established in six months. Under this methodology, 70 teachers from six schools in San Pedro Yepocapa will be trained in risk management and response issues.
In addition, 1,163 boys and girls are going to learn about risk reaction issues, through the interactive game with a character named ROCO, who through songs and choreography will teach about geodynamic, hydro meteorological, anthropogenic and climate change threats. The character of “ROCO the cat” was created thanks to the financial contribution of the British Embassy in Guatemala.
The six schools benefited from this interactive game belong to the communities of Morelia, San Rafael Sumatan, Montellano, Los Olivos, San Francisco and Buena Vista, all in Chimaltenango.
The British Ambassador to Guatemala, Nick Whittingham, recently visited Morelia School and commented:
Guatemala is the fifth country in the world with the highest risk of natural disasters. That is why the work of organizations such as World Vision, CONRED, INSIVUMEH, the Red Cross, amongst others, is so important in this country. Moreover, in this project the work teachers do with their students is especially important. I urge you to adopt ROCO, share the message with your families, friends, and contribute to expand this project.