The European Centre for Disaster Medicine (CEMEC) has officially entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Far Eastern University (FEU) marking the beginning of a collaborative effort to advance disaster risk reduction and public health protection.
The partnership brings together FEU’s College of Nursing’s focus on training healthcare professionals in disaster preparedness and response and FEU’s College of International Studies’ dedication to promoting international cooperation and understanding in the realms of disaster risk management and public health with CEMEC’s leading role in disaster medicine training and research under the Council of Europe.
Left side of the table: Prof Roberto Mugavero and FEU Institute of Arts & Sciences Dean, Diego Jose R. Abad. Right side of the table (L-R): FEU Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, Maria Teresa Trinidad P. Tinio, PhD; FEU Dean of Nursing, Moira G. Uy, RN, MAN.
Consul General of the Republic of San Marino Jean Henri Lhuillier, who supports CEMEC, declared: “This partnership is invaluable as it utilizes the key strength areas of both CEMEC and FEU so we can prepare well for risks that lie ahead in our modern world”.
The MoU focuses on two key areas. First is disaster risk reduction which seeks to develop and implement strategies to minimize the impact of natural and technological disasters. Second, is public health protection which aims to enhance preparedness and response mechanisms to protect public health during emergencies.
The partnership will manifest through a variety of cooperative efforts involving CEMEC, FEU College of Nursing and FEU College of International Studies. These include: Holding joint events and workshops that bring together experts to share insights and best practices in disaster management and public health protection; conducting training programs for students, faculty, and professionals that will enhance their capabilities in disaster medicine and public health; exchanging Information and sharing of vital data, research findings, and resources between FEU and CEMEC; organizing meetings for experts from both institutions to collaborate on research initiatives and policy development; and, engaging representatives from each institution to participate in the other’s activities to foster a collaborative environment and ensure a seamless exchange of knowledge and expertise.
FEU President Dr. Michael M. Alba expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “This collaboration with CEMEC underscores our commitment to advancing public health and disaster risk management. It opens up new avenues for research, training, and the development of innovative strategies that will benefit not only our communities but also set a benchmark for international cooperation in these critical fields.”
CEMEC Director Dr. Roberto Mugavero added, “We are thrilled to partner with FEU, an institution that shares our vision for a safer and healthier world. Together, we can make significant strides in disaster risk reduction and public health protection, ultimately enhancing the resilience of communities globally.”
