Participants – lecturers and students from the School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance pose for a group photo after the field skill exercise.
MMUST’s Diploma and Undergraduate students from the School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance continue to sharpen their Field Skills, preparing themselves for the challenges and demands of working in disaster-affected areas and with vulnerable populations. This was demonstrated through a comprehensive four-day Field Skills Practicum held in Budalangi from 24 October to 27 October, 2023. The Practicum, which is an integral component of the second semester of the second year of studies, is crucial for the disaster management students as it equips them with the practical knowledge, adaptability, cultural competence, and problem-solving abilities needed to effectively respond to disasters, humanitarian aid, and make a positive impact in the field.
This year’s practicum brought together students pursuing Diploma and Bachelor’s Degrees in Emergency Management and Humanitarian Assistance; Conflict Resolution and Humanitarian Assistance; Peace and Conflict Studies; Disaster Management and International Diplomacy; Security and Intelligence Studies, and Disaster Management. Various stakeholders, including local authorities, first responders, and experts in the field were also present during the exercise, to ensure a comprehensive learning environment for the students. This provided them with diverse perspectives and practical experiences that are essential for their development as competent and empathetic disaster management professionals.
Mr. Methuselah Kuto from ICare demonstrating first aid technique on a casualty during the practicum.
In an exclusive interview with the Dean School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (SDMHA)- Dr. Ferdinand Nabiswa, highlighted the practicum’s primary objective, saying that it involves the integration of practical skills with theoretical knowledge. He shed light on various aspects of the program, emphasizing its unique approach to preparing students for real-world challenges. Additionally, Dr. Nabiswa shared the School’s proactive approach to preparing students for the challenges they could encounter during the field skills session. He mentioned among them light activities such as the daily morning runs, humanitarian experiences, intensive training programmes, expert-led workshops, and the first aid and emergency response trainings.
The Dean School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (SDMHA)- Dr. Ferdinand Nabiswa addressing students and community members during a humanitarian visit to Khumwanda camp, Maumau – Bunyala South.
Further, Dr. Nabiswa affirmed that through regular feedback, alumni engagement, and collaboration with industry professionals, SDMHA continually assesses and improves the experiential field skills program with the objective of maintaining its relevance and effectiveness to meet the ever-changing demands of the field.
The Chairperson of Department (CoD) - Emergency Management Studies, Dr. Nicholas Ombachi, attested that field practicum experiences are an integral part of the education journey for students pursuing disaster management. He stressed on the fact that while theoretical knowledge forms the foundation of their learning, it is the practical application of the knowledge in real-life disaster scenarios that truly sharpens their skills and understanding.
“Engaging in field practicum not only allows you as disaster management students to witness the challenges and complexities of disaster response first-hand, but also fosters a sense of empathy and deep understanding for the communities directly affected by such events. It is on the ground where you learn to navigate the intricacies of managing disasters, collaborating with local authorities, and providing vital support to those in need,” said Dr. Ombachi.
A section of students conquers new heights during a thrilling hike.
Dr. Ombachi further encouraged the students to make the most of the opportunity, adding that it will mold them into capable and compassionate professionals in the critical field of disaster management and humanitarian assistance.
One of SDMHA’s Senior Technicians, Ms. Janerose Kimuma reiterated Dr. Ombachi’s sentiments, noting that the immersive nature of the experiences that the students get exposed to during the practicum, cultivates a profound sense of responsibility and preparedness in them. She was confident that the students understood and gained essential skills including teamwork, ability to adapt quickly, making critical decisions under pressure, as well as effective communication within a diverse and often challenging environment during their practicum.
“Field practicum presents a chance for you to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical application. It also allows you to grasp the human aspect of disasters beyond theory, in addition to equipping you with the necessary skills and resilience to effectively contribute to disaster relief and management efforts in the future,” stated Ms. Kimuma.
One of the students, Mr. Ray Okoth sharing his experiences from the role-playing exercise.
The practicum covered various activities including; Search and Rescue Operations as well as Techniques in Different Disasters, Teambuilding, First-Aid Practice and Trauma Management, as well as a Visit to the IDPs Rescue Centres. In addition to these activities, the students also visited various parts of Budalangi to interact first-hand with the causes and effects of floods, measures put in place to reduce the severity of floods in the region, and the impact of disaster to the livelihood; socio-economic and cultural well-being of the people.
Notably, the students had an interactive session with Ms. Ednah Sabiri from the Department of Health Promotion and Sports Science. She discussed with the students about the essence of critical thinking, effective communication, teamwork and leadership. Ms. Ednah emphasized that these skills are key in preparing them to handle the complexities and challenges in disaster management, and contributing to more effective and efficient crisis response efforts. These skills were demonstrated through case-based learning; simulations and role-playing exercises; debriefing sessions; and a multidisciplinary problem-solving approach.
Ms. Ednah Sabiri from the Department of Health Promotion and Sports Science briefing students prior to the games and role-playing exercises.
It is also worth noting that students were accompanied by other members of staff from the School, including Sgt (Rev) Elijah Onyango Standslause Odhiambo, Ms. Betty Opilo, Mr. Leonard Nyongesa, Mr. Japheth Ogenga and Mr. Peter Otsianda.
Through this comprehensive experiential field skills program, the School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance continues to shape a new generation of disaster response experts, equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact in the field of disaster management. Similarly, with the University’s commitment to experiential learning, MMUST remains dedicated to shaping the future of disaster management and fostering a culture of preparedness and resilience in the face of adversity.
By Caren Nekesa
