The International Labour Organization (ILO) has strengthened Myanmar’s capacity for post-earthquake recovery and community resilience through a specialized training initiative conducted in partnership with China. The “Capacity-Building Training for Post-Earthquake Recovery in Myanmar” was held online from 13–14 August 2025, bringing together over 50 participants, including vocational trainers, emergency responders, educators, and community leaders from across the country.
Organized under the ILO/China Partnership Project with support from the Hangzhou Technician Institution, a key member of the South-South Cooperation Skills Development Network, the program aimed to provide practical tools for disaster preparedness, mental health support, and recovery. Delivered by experts from the Hangzhou Technician Institute, the training covered earthquake mitigation, post-earthquake epidemic prevention and control, and psychological recovery, combining technical presentations, real-life case studies, and interactive discussions.
Participants reported significant improvements in confidence and preparedness, highlighting the structured approaches offered for guiding communities through crises. The training was particularly valued for its focus on mental health support and public health risk reduction, equipping attendees to address both immediate and long-term challenges following major earthquakes.
Tian Feng, ILO/China Project Manager and Coordinator, emphasized the role of South–South cooperation in linking China’s expertise in vocational training and disaster management with Myanmar’s local needs. He noted that the initiative strengthens capacities that save lives, protect livelihoods, and enable faster recovery after earthquakes.
This training is part of the broader ILO/China partnership’s effort to foster disaster preparedness systems and build a network of skilled practitioners across the Belt and Road region, aligning technical expertise with local community needs.
