ILO training strengthens earthquake recovery skills and resilience in Myanmar

Yangon (ILO News) – A special training initiative by the International Labour Organization (ILO) has strengthened the capacity of Myanmar’s practitioners to support post-earthquake recovery and build community resilience.

“Capacity-Building Training for Post-Earthquake Recovery in Myanmar” took place online from 13–14 August 2025, bringing together more than 50 participants, including vocational trainers, emergency responders, educators, and community leaders from across the country.

The programme was organised by the ILO/China Partnership Project with support from the Hangzhou Technician Institution, a key member of the South-South Cooperation Skills Development Network.

Delivered by experts from the Hangzhou Technician Institute, the training covered topics such as earthquake mitigation, post-earthquake epidemic prevention and control, and psychological recovery. The sessions combined technical presentations, real-life case studies and interactive discussions to equip participants with practical tools to prepare for, respond to and recover from earthquake disasters.

Attendees reported a marked increase in confidence and preparedness, noting that the training provided structured approaches for guiding communities through crises. Many highlighted the value of learning about mental health support and public health risk reduction following major shocks.

Tian Feng, ILO/China Project Manager and Coordinator, highlighted the importance of South–South cooperation within the ILO/China Partnership Programme on Skill Development, as a means to address real-world challenges.

“By sharing China’s expertise in vocational training and disaster management with our partners in Myanmar, we have strengthened capacities that save lives, protects livelihoods, and enable faster recovery in the aftermath of earthquakes,” he said.

This initiative is part of the ILO/China partnership’s broader effort to link technical expertise with local needs, fostering stronger disaster preparedness systems and building a network of skilled practitioners across the Belt and Road region.

© ILO

© ILO