Innovations and Best Practices in Prevention and Preparedness of Disaster and Related Displacement

On Friday, December 6, 2024, the University of Oklahoma Anne and Henry Zarrow School of Social Work and the Consulate-General of Japan in Houston, co-hosted the symposium, "Innovations and Best Practices in Prevention and Preparedness of Disaster and Related Displacement," at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art. The event gathered influential leaders, disaster management experts, and scholars from Japan and the United States to explore strategies for improving disaster preparedness, response, and support for displaced populations.

The symposium welcomed more than 127 attendees, including key figures such as Joseph Harroz, Jr., President of the University of Oklahoma; Zentaro Naganuma, Consul General of Japan in Houston; Matt Pinnell, Oklahoma Lieutenant Governor; Daisuke Abe, Executive Officer of Weathernews Inc.; Major General Thomas H. Mancino, military advisor to Governor Stitt and Commander of the Oklahoma Army and Air National Guard; and Oklahoma Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell. Norman Mayor Larry Heikkila was also in attendance.

In his opening remarks, President Harroz emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration between industry, academia, and government to strengthen disaster resilience. Consul General Naganuma echoed this message, noting that Japan and Oklahoma share the challenge of natural disasters, and the symposium provided an opportunity to exchange valuable insights and build a more resilient future together.

Presentations and panels featured experts from Japan and the U.S. who shared best practices for mitigating disaster risks, preventing displacement, and supporting affected communities. Throughout the event, discussions focused on innovative approaches to disaster preparedness, knowledge sharing, and policy development, all in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

At a networking reception following the symposium, Lieutenant Governor Pinnell spoke about the event marking the beginning of an expanded partnership between Japan and Oklahoma. He announced plans for a 2025 delegation visit to Japan to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the sister city relationship between Kyoto Prefecture and the State of Oklahoma.

The symposium underscored the importance of fostering international collaboration in disaster response and prevention, highlighting the shared commitment to building resilient communities and reducing the impact of disasters on vulnerable populations.