The DDM seeking a professional videographer to help market programmes

According to a release from the DDM, this promotional video would highlight basic information about the Department and should be formatted to target a wide audience.

“This video will be aired on all local television stations the Department’s website and other online social networking sites utilized by the DDM. It will also be used to promote the work of the Department at meetings and conferences held locally, regionally and internationally,” the release stated.

The release also noted that while the DDM has media production capacity in house; its range is limited and therefore it was necessary to engage professionals to complete this activity; specifically in the areas of editing, script-writing, graphics and production.

The Virgin Islands Government, through the Department of Disaster Management (DDM), developed a Comprehensive Disaster Management (CDM) Policy, Strategy and Programming Framework for the period 2009-2013.

The purpose of the national CDM Policy is to establish the necessary systems, structures, programmes, resources, capabilities and guiding principles for reducing disaster risk and preparing for, responding to and recovering from emergencies and disasters caused by natural and man-made hazards.  This is done in order to minimize human suffering, reduce economic losses and protect the integrity of the marine and terrestrial environment.

According to the DDM, with the proliferation of digital video technology and availability of funding provided by the Department for International Development (DFID), the DDM is desirous of producing a succinct, yet visually stimulating documentary on its work.  It is expected that the end product will be a twenty (20) minute, high quality promotional video which documents the DDM’s formation, achievements, role, functions, purpose, services and programmes.

Meanwhile, another release from the said the Department for International Development (DFID) is supporting the DDM and the Department of Education in achieving the outcomes and outputs in the Strategy and that a financial support has been provided by DFID for the development and printing of an Activity Book for Preschoolers ages 2-5.  “The introduction of an activity book into the pre-primary curriculum is expected to increase the range of activities available for enhancing knowledge and understanding of disaster preparedness in this age group, ” the release stated.

All Pre-primary schools registered with the Department of Education will receive copies of the activity book packed with information geared towards fostering awareness and knowledge of disaster preparedness.

The activity book will contain basic information about all types of hazards aimed at promoting early childhood awareness for those hazards affecting the Territory.  It will include teaching guides that will assist teachers and parents in educating their preschoolers about these hazards.