In a dynamic convergence of action and academia at macro level, Global program takes strides towards a holistic understanding of Disaster Management and Food Security. The spotlight turned to the Caritas India Global Program at the UGC-sponsored refresher course tailored for Geography and Geology hosted by Geology department of Patna University on January 25, 2024.

The recent refresher course stands as a significant milestone in this endeavour, showcasing how Caritas India has collaborated with academia to orient professors and students toward the realms of Disaster Management and Climate Change Adaptation. It is one of the macro-level achievements to foster knowledge exchange and cross-learning with universities on the systematization of practical experiences and model projects.

Mr. Abhishek Kumar and Mr. Sushant Saurabh from Caritas India Global Program were invited to share their insights and the organization’s initiatives on disaster risk reduction and food security with academia. The impactful sharing was attended by 40 Assistant Professors and students from the Geology Department. This diverse engagement underscored the importance and relevance of the topics, bringing together academia and students to collectively explore and understand the challenges posed by disasters and climate change.

Mr. Abhishek Kumar in his session provided a comprehensive overview of Caritas India’s Pan India initiatives in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR). The presentation covered the meticulous process of village selection, the facilitation of Participatory Disaster Risk Assessment (PDRA) exercises, the formation of disaster management committees, and the subsequent planning, implementation, and monitoring of DRR plans and the emergence of scalable resilient models. Notably, the emphasis on global programs highlighted the extensive scale and impact of Caritas India’s efforts in building resilience against disasters. This macro-level knowledge exchange ensures that practical experiences on the ground inform academic discourse, creating a symbiotic relationship between action and theory.

Following this, Mr. Sushant Saurabh delved into the strategic initiatives in nutrition and food security at macro, micro, and meso levels. His presentation showcased a holistic approach aligning with sustainable practices under the nutrition-sensitive action plan. The collaboration with Patna University was underscored as a pivotal element, emphasizing the integration of practical knowledge with academic expertise. This collaboration stands as a testament to the program’s commitment to engaging with academia, recognizing it as a major stakeholder in addressing challenges related to disaster management, climate change adaptation, and nutrition security.

The joint session by Caritas staff seamlessly showcased the integration of practical initiatives with academic insights. The ongoing dialogue and collaboration with Patna University exemplify the strong partnership with academia, enriching the educational landscape with real-world applications.

Caritas India’s collaborative approach with academic institutions envisions a future where the exchange of knowledge and experiences becomes a cornerstone in building resilient communities and addressing global challenges.