The Hope Caravan Association, in collaboration with Türkiye's Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency (AFAD), organized a training seminar for its Search and Rescue Team in Batman, equipping members with advanced skills for effective disaster response.

The seminar took place at the association’s headquarters and was attended by prominent figures, including Cafer Ökmen, Vice President of the Hope Caravan Foundation, and Nurettin Teymur, President of the Hope Caravan Association. Approximately 40 members of the team participated, gaining both theoretical and practical knowledge crucial for disaster management.

Speaking after the seminar, Cafer Ökmen emphasized the importance of disaster preparedness and praised the dynamic structure of the team.

“As Hope Caravan Disaster Management Presidency, we visit our units across Türkiye to provide support and certification. Today, we are in Batman, where we have formed a very dynamic and strong team of approximately 40 people. This number is expected to grow in the near future,” Ökmen said.

He also expressed optimism about the team’s readiness, adding: “Our brothers in Batman will be ready to serve our people in a possible disaster. We are working towards accreditation with AFAD, and I hope Batman will soon be fully prepared for duty. May God protect Batman from all kinds of disasters.”

Highlighting Türkiye's vulnerability to earthquakes, Ökmen recalled the devastating February 6, 2023, earthquake that affected 14 million people and caused over $200 billion in damage.

“Türkiye lies in a serious earthquake zone, which unfortunately brings material and moral challenges. As NGOs, we continue our preparations in collaboration with AFAD. Our immediate goal is to establish 15 units across the country, gradually increasing this number to enhance our disaster response capacity,” he stated.

The seminar and ongoing training efforts underscore Hope Caravan’s dedication to strengthening local and national disaster preparedness. These initiatives aim to ensure that teams like Batman’s are well-equipped and ready to respond to disasters, safeguarding lives and communities when it matters most. (ILKHA)