Boosting Disaster Preparedness through GIS Training
Public servants in Sint Maarten now possess enhanced capabilities in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) following a successful training workshop organized by the PARATUS project from June 14th to June 20th, 2025. The intensive program aimed to provide crucial GIS knowledge and practical skills to individuals with roles in disaster risk management and prevention, significantly bolstering the island’s preparedness efforts. The workshop’s primary objective was to empower participants to conduct simple spatial analysis and effectively display their findings in map layouts. The training, which assumed no prior GIS knowledge, was well-received by all attendees, with 9 out of 10 participants rating it as “Excellent” or “Very Good” in post-course evaluations.
Innovative Approach to Disaster Risk Mapping
A key highlight of the training was its innovative approach, centering around the theme of Disaster Risk Mapping. This overarching context provided a relatable and practical framework for all exercises. Participants actively engaged in the PARATUS Disaster Risk Management card game, an interactive tool that allowed them to construct a chain of events following a hurricane-triggered flood hazard. This engaging activity not only drew upon their local experiences but also served as a springboard for subsequent mapping exercises using GIS software.
Comprehensive Curriculum and Practical Application
The curriculum included hands-on sessions covering a wide range of topics, from an introduction to GIS concepts and QGIS installation to advanced spatial analysis workflows and cartographic product creation. Participants learned to utilize tools like FASTFLOOD to produce flood maps, which were then integrated into QGIS for further analysis and visualization. The training concluded with each participant receiving an official QGIS certificate issued by ITC, a recognized QGIS Certifying Organization.
Collaborative Success and Future Resilience
The Fire Department staff was a primary target for the training, with five of its members participating, alongside five representatives from other Government ministries and dependencies. This impactful training was organized in collaboration with the Fire Department of the Government of Sint Maarten and forms a vital part of the PARATUS Project’s efforts to enhance disaster preparedness and resilience in the region. The commitment and engagement of the participants throughout the week were commendable, further underscoring the success and importance of this initiative for Sint Maarten’s future disaster management strategies.
