In 2023, as part of the DRR and Social Safety project, COOPI included a school safety component across all targeted project locations. Following the UNDRR’s Comprehensive School Safety framework, the project was structured around three pillars: safe learning facilities, school disaster management, and DRR and resilience education.

In partnership with Christian Aid, COOPI developed a customized manual tailored to the Nigerian context to train teachers and students. The manual provided practical guidelines for creating safer school environments, such as securing student records, eliminating fire hazards, and ensuring accessible sanitation facilities. It also advocated for the monitoring and maintenance of school infrastructure and the integration of climate-smart interventions like rainwater harvesting and school gardens.

Additionally, the project focused on building capacity for disaster management at the school level, including the creation of disaster management committees, the establishment of school-based DRR focal points, and the implementation of standard operating procedures for disaster preparedness. Teachers and students were trained to integrate DRR topics into the curriculum and engage in real-life disaster management activities. COOPI and Christian Aid are also working and advocating for the adaptation of this manual at the state level to ensure that all schools receive dedicated materials on DRR to include in their educational programs.

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