Dear Partners, Friends, and Colleagues,
Current disasters in 2011 include (ReliefWeb): the outbreak of Cholera/Measles/Meningitis in Chad "at an alarming level" (March); the earthquake in Myanmar which affected at least 18,000 people residing in 90 villages (March); Floods and Landslides in Thailand (March); the massive Tsunami that was triggered by the 9.0 magnitude earthquake in northeast Japan, causing widespread destruction (March); and, a major cholera outbreak in the Cameroon (January).
This newsletter brings you links to the latest news and information about these catastrophes.
On a different note, I am pleased to report that, in response to the strong desire of many governmental and non-governmental agencies, other organizations and individual professionals to have access to an academic program that addresses the question of what to do AFTER emergency relief leaves the disaster scene, CRSCAD now offers a new Global Post-Disaster Studies Certificate, in partnership with University College. This online eighteen-credit graduate program focuses on reconstruction with vulnerable populations and addresses the complexities and the intertwined technical and socio-cultural aspects of disasters in a multi-disciplinary approach. It is in addition to the Professional Development Program which I announced in the November 2010 newsletter.
Finally, I am glad to state that the preparations for our next International Workshop in November 2011 are progressing very satisfactorily.
I look forward to your active participation in, and promotion of, these programs and event.
I thank you.
Adenrele Awotona
Founding Director & Professor