YOGYAKARTA - Universitas Gadjah Mada responded to the calls from National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) on disaster risk reduction efforts by establishing research cooperation. The signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between UGM and BNPB was conducted in December 2011. University as center of excellence has made contributions through disaster research results which are used as the basis for the formulation of government policy.
Research collaboration by both parties followed the signing of the MoU. In this case the Centre for Disaster Studies (PSBA) represents UGM.
Discussion and presentation of research plan on disaster research were conducted by a lecturer of Geography Faculty and researcher in PSBA, Dr. Dyah Rahmawati Hizbaron, M.T, M.Sc. in Wanagama Room, UGM University Club on Monday (6/8). The presentation of research plan was attended by Head of BNPB, Dr. Syamsul Maarif, M.Si, Vice Rector for Research and Community Services, Prof. Dr. Suratman, M.Sc., Vice Rector for Cooperation and Alumni, Prof. Ir. Dwikorita Karnawati, M.Sc., Ph.D., Head of Data and Information Center, Dr. Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, M.Si, Director of Preparedness Division, Ir. B. Wisnu Widjaja, and Director of Disaster Risk Reduction, Dr. Ir. Teddy W Sudinda, M.Eng.
In his speech, Dr. Syamsul Maarif, M.Si declared that national disaster resilience became the main capital in disaster risk reduction. Local wisdom needs to be explored through research so that BNPB policy becomes more precise and accurate.
Meanwhile, in her presentation Dr. Dyah Rahmawati Hizbaron, M.T., M.Sc. explained that disasters are caused not only by the characteristics of region, but also the social characteristics of society. In terms of social science standpoint, disaster is also affected by the collective rational interpretations.
At the same time Prof. Dr. Suratman, M.Sc. welcomed the research collaboration between UGM and BNPB. The partnership that exists between UGM and BNPB is one step towards a world class research university.
"The partnership that has existed is expected to expand networking, especially in the field of disaster research. UGM will facilitate collaborations that have been built," Suratman concluded.