Disaster Management and Preparedness among Students at Tertiary Level: A Case of Mixed Method Research

Abstract

This study has been designed to examine the awareness level of youth [students] regarding knowledge, attitude, and practice about disaster management and preparedness. For this purpose, research was conducted in a public sector university, and students of the faculty of arts participated. A mixed research method (MMR), both quantitative and qualitative research designs, was used to ascertain the objective of the study. A sample of 352 male and female students was selected. A well-structured questionnaire was designed, and data was collected by employing a purposive sampling technique. However, a focused group discussion (FGD) was also conducted. The data was analyzed by employing the T-test, and a conclusion was drawn. The study revealed that most of the students lack knowledge of disaster management and preparedness as the awareness level in youth is very low, and they do not even know about the importance and different dimensions of disaster management and preparedness. Moreover, they are found unaware of the disaster phases and basic knowledge about the risks and vulnerabilities.