1.

In Jakarta from 9th to 20th September, the training entitled “Capacity development for immediate access and effective utilization of satellite information for disaster management in ASEAN” was co-organized by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and ASEAN Coordination Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre). Trainees from National Disaster Management Offices (NDMOs) in ASEAN Member States, ASEAN Secretariat and AHA Centre participated in the training from ASEAN side, while Dr.Yasuyuki SHIMIZU of Hokkaido University and other lecturers from Kyoto University,Cold Region Public Works Research Institute attended. Dr.Jonathan Nelson of US Geological Survey National Research Program was also a lecturer. Minister-Counselor Ms.Takako ITO represented Mission of Japan to ASEAN to deliver the opening speech.

2.

The purpose of the training is to provide ASEAN Member States (AMS) with basic techniques so that they will be able to conduct disaster management operations by utilizing satellite information. Each of AMS will send two trainees from their disaster management office each year in this three-year term training so that a total of 60 trainees are expected to play a key role in their respective NDMOs in conducting satellite information-based activities.

3.

It is expected that this training will contribute to the development of trainee’s capacity in handling satellite information and to enhance the capacity of NDMOs through their practical experience. It is also expected that people-to-people connectivity fostered through this training will further develop disaster management cooperation in ASEAN region with AHA Centre as a regional hub.