Abu Dhabi hosts forum to develop first responder skills

Abu Dhabi has launched the National Forum for Developing the Skills of Professional and Community First Responders, under the banner “Together for a Prepared Nation.” The event saw significant participation from government and private institutions, healthcare providers, emergency medical services, Civil Defence, police, and volunteers.

This initiative is part of a broader national strategy to enhance preparedness and response capabilities for emergencies, crises, and disasters. It is spearheaded by the Unified and Integrated National Preparedness and Response System and overseen by the Abu Dhabi Disaster Medicine Centre. The forum's training is accredited by Jaheziya Academy, the European Centre for Disaster Medicine, and National Training.

The forum aligns with the UAE's national vision to equip first responders with skills that meet international standards. It builds upon a series of successful national programs that have trained over 20,000 professional and community first responders across vital sectors, including healthcare, emergency services, and security. These efforts have significantly boosted national capabilities and improved emergency response efficiency.

Key objectives of the forum include developing frontline personnel competencies, fostering better integration among response agencies, promoting a culture of community preparedness, and empowering citizens to contribute actively to the national response system. The forum features two main tracks: one for professional first responders in government and private organizations, and another for emergency and disaster management professionals. It also targets the general public, including citizens, residents, students, and employees, to enhance first aid skills and reinforce the community's role as a partner in national response.