A State Government-funded collaboration between the South Australian Country Fire Service (CFS), Australian Red Cross and Commissioner for Children and Young People, Helen Connolly, is set to empower the youth of South Australia to be disaster ready.
The Youth in Emergencies Development Program (YEDP) will give young people in Years 9-12 around the State the opportunity to work towards a Duke of Edinburgh International Bronze Award, and enhance their disaster preparedness education in the face of the escalating impact of emergencies and disasters.
“Our Government is proud to support and fund initiatives like YEDP that engage young people. This program is a proactive step towards building a community that is disaster ready,” said Minister for Police, Emergency Services and Correctional Services, Joe Szakacs.
“By investing in their education and empowerment, we are fostering a generation that not only understands the challenges posed by emergencies but is also equipped to face them head-on.”
The internationally recognised award offers students the chance become a youth leader in emergency management, gaining essential skills, connecting with like-minded peers, and bolstering access to higher education and job opportunities.
The team worked with young people from around South Australia to co-design the unique program, which imparts vital knowledge of emergency scenarios to its participants.
“We know young people want to be empowered with life skills that ensure their safety in the face of emergencies – something the Youth in Emergencies Development Program is designed to deliver,” said Australian Red Cross State Director, Sarah Strathearn.
Applications for the Youth in Emergencies Development Program are now open to all South Australians enrolled in years 9-12. For more information, or to apply for the program visit: https://www.redcross.org.au/act/duke-of-edinburgh/.
For parents seeking to empower their children with life skills and ensure their safety in the face of emergencies, the YEDP offers a comprehensive and unparalleled experience.
For more information, or to apply for the program visit:Â https://www.redcross.org.au/act/duke-of-edinburgh/.
