Antigua and Barbuda has significantly enhanced its disaster preparedness capabilities with the certification of nine new professionals in Shelter Management and Initial Damage Assessment. This achievement follows an intensive five-day instructional program funded by the United States government’s Regional Disaster Assistance Programme.
The comprehensive ‘Hand Off Course’, conducted at the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS), provided specialized training in instructional methodologies and content delivery. The program was led by Disaster Management Training Facilitator Velda Joseph, with support from Disaster Risk Management Specialist Terry Morris, who oversees operations for Antigua and Barbuda.
Joseph expressed considerable satisfaction with the training outcomes, confirming that all participants successfully completed the certification requirements. ‘This development creates a new cohort of professionals capable of disseminating critical knowledge on disaster resilience and preparedness throughout our communities,’ Joseph noted. The initiative is expected to substantially reduce disaster impacts by building local capacity and alleviating pressure on national emergency systems.
Participants reported exceptional educational value from the training experience. Mellissa Chandler, one of the newly certified instructors, described the program as ‘highly informative with precisely delivered crucial information.’ Chandler emphasized the collaborative nature of the training, noting strong participant engagement and teamwork despite the demanding schedule.
Fellow participant Tijahma Burns highlighted the program’s practical insights, stating the training ‘provided substantial new knowledge on operational protocols during disaster scenarios.’ The certification enables these professionals to not only serve within Antigua and Barbuda but also to assist other nations in developing their instructional teams and providing post-disaster support operations.
This capacity-building initiative represents a significant advancement in the Caribbean region’s ongoing efforts to strengthen disaster response capabilities through specialized training and international cooperation.