FEMA Joins Istanbul Technical University in Training Program 

Release Date: September 29, 2000
Release Number: HQ-00-128

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- As part of the U.S response to last year's devastating earthquake in Turkey, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) this week launched an extensive emergency management training partnership with Istanbul Technical University (ITU). The objective is to create an educational model for the development of professionally trained emergency managers in Turkey and to increase the general population's understanding of the need for earthquake planning and preparedness.

FEMA is sending trainers from its Emergency Management Institute (EMI), along with expert technical consultants, to the ITU campus to conduct "train-the-trainer" emergency management classes and exercises. FEMA, working with ITU, developed a 19-course curriculum constituting the basic building blocks necessary for effective emergency management training. The first of these intensive education sessions began on September 25 and the effort will continue over the next seven months. FEMA trainers plan to be on the ITU campus one week each month through spring 2001.

Participants in the classes include ITU faculty who will translate and adapt the training materials for use throughout Turkey. After the FEMA classes are completed, ITU plans to expand the training to national and local government officials, emergency management personnel, police, firefighters, and the general public.

"This kind of 'train-the-trainer' program has been found to work well in the United States and we think it will be as beneficial to Turkey in building its emergency management capabilities" said Kay Goss, FEMA Associate Director for Preparedness, Training and Exercises, who is overseeing the U.S. role.

FEMA has also pledged to work with ITU and other higher education institutions in Turkey to help institute graduate degree programs in emergency management similar to those offered by American colleges and universities.

Funding for the FEMA program is being provided by the Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance of the United States Agency for International Development.

Last Modified: Monday, 29-Dec-2003 15:02:47