Hasanuddin University Students Strengthen Disaster Literacy through the SALAMA Program in Makassar
Makassar, August 24, 2026 – Hasanuddin University (Unhas) has contributed to strengthening disaster literacy among school students through student engagement and the application of innovative educational tools in the SALAMA programme, organised by the Makassar City Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD). Conducted from July 13 to August 24, 2026, the programme reached more than 20 elementary and junior high schools across Makassar.
As part of the collaboration between Unhas and BPBD Makassar, 11 students from four study programmes—Geophysics, Management, Agribusiness, and Animal Science—actively participated in the initiative. They served as educational assistants and facilitators of interactive learning activities, helping school students develop a basic understanding of disaster hazards and risks, as well as the importance of early preparedness.
A key contribution from Unhas was the introduction of Disaster Literacy Monopoly, an innovative educational board game developed by lecturers from the Geophysics Study Programme at Unhas. Integrated into BPBD's disaster awareness activities, the game encouraged students to explore potential hazards, understand disaster risks, and identify appropriate preparedness measures through engaging and participatory learning experiences.
The collaboration achieved several tangible outcomes, including the delivery of disaster education activities in more than 20 schools, the involvement of 11 students from diverse academic disciplines, and the practical application of a university-developed educational innovation within a local government disaster education programme. The initiative also provided participating students with opportunities to strengthen their communication, teamwork, and community engagement skills through direct field experience.
Through the SALAMA programme, Hasanuddin University has demonstrated its role as an academic partner in supporting local government efforts to advance disaster risk reduction education. By integrating academic expertise, educational innovation, and student participation, this collaboration provides a foundation for more sustainable disaster education initiatives and contributes to fostering a culture of disaster awareness and preparedness among school communities in Makassar.