Year 9 and Year 10 Geography students at Ark Alexandra Academy were recently given a unique opportunity to learn from one of the world's leading experts in climate and disaster research.
The academy was delighted to welcome Prof. Ilan Kelman, Senior Research Fellow at the Centre for International Climate and Environmental Research (CICERO) in Oslo and Professor at University College London (UCL), for a thought-provoking presentation on natural hazards, disasters and global resilience.
Prof. Kelman, who has authored several books on disasters and disaster risk reduction, challenged students to think differently about the topic, arguing that there is no such thing as a "natural disaster". Instead, he explained how human decisions, planning and preparedness often determine whether a natural hazard becomes a disaster.
Through a highly engaging presentation, students explored how governments and communities can reduce risk through investment in protection, prevention and planning, while also considering why some countries are better equipped to respond to hazards than others.
Prof. Kelman also discussed the wide range of higher education pathways and careers linked to disaster management, humanitarian response and environmental research, helping students understand how Geography can lead to a variety of exciting future opportunities.
Students engaged exceptionally well throughout the session, asking insightful questions and demonstrating great curiosity about the issues discussed.
The visit provided a valuable opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of global challenges while learning from a leading voice in climate and disaster research.
