From Knowledge to Collaboration: Reflections from the First DIGIHAZ Summer Camp

Funded by the European Union (EU) through the SCOPE-HE Programme, the DIGIHAZ Summer Camp was held from 6–10 July 2026 at the Hellenic Mediterranean University (HMU) in Heraklion, Greece. The programme brought together 30 participants, including PhD students, leading researchers and the DIGIHAZ Project Coordinator, from the University of Alicante, the University of West Attica, Universiti Utara Malaysia, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Xavier University and the University of the Cordilleras.

Over five days, participants took part in a multidisciplinary programme designed to strengthen an international research community developing digital solutions for natural hazards. The curriculum covered geodesy, remote sensing, early warning systems, AI-powered Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and science communication which is essential for researchers seeking to translate scientific knowledge into real-world impact.

Key Takeaways from the First DIGIHAZ Science Camp

We asked Engr. William M. Turno from Xavier University (Philippines) and Puteri Nur Atiqah Binti Bandira (Puteri) from Universiti Sains Malaysia (Malaysia) about the key lessons they took away from the first DIGIHAZ Science Camp.

For Engr. William, the five-day programme significantly broadened his understanding of natural hazards monitoring, policymaking and disaster risk decision-making. “Beyond the technical knowledge, one of the most valuable lessons was the importance of clear communication during emergencies, particularly the power of an effective elevator pitch to deliver critical messages quickly and persuasively. Hands-on sessions on remote sensing, open-access hazard assessment tools, the Internet of Things (IoT) and sensor networks also demonstrated how emerging technologies are transforming disaster monitoring and resilience,” he shared.

One of the highlights for him was the visit to the laboratories at the Hellenic Mediterranean University (HMU), where cutting-edge robotics and engineering facilities demonstrated the value of innovation-driven learning. The visit to the Skinakas Observatory was equally memorable. “It rekindled my childhood fascination with the universe and inspired me to deepen my engineering knowledge. The programme left me not only with new technical insights, but also with fresh motivation to bring these ideas into my own teaching and contribute to more resilient communities,” he said.

While for Puteri, the Summer Camp reinforced the importance of collaboration in addressing global challenges. “We cannot solve something as complex as climate change and disaster management by working alone. We need to work together, leverage each other’s strengths and expertise, and be open to learning from people with different backgrounds,” she reflected.

One session that left a lasting impression on her was delivered by Sir Nathaniel Lubrica from the University of the Cordilleras. “I really appreciated how he brought us back to reality. As researchers, we sometimes get so focused on developing frameworks and publishing papers that we forget who our research is actually for. He reminded us that if we want our work to create real impact, we need to work closely with communities and understand their needs. He also shared the challenges of working with different stakeholders, and it was a good reality check that having a good idea is one thing, but getting everyone on board is another.”

How can research activities help strengthen connections between the EU and ASEAN regions?

For Puteri, research initiatives such as DIGIHAZ play an important role in strengthening connections between the EU and ASEAN by bringing together researchers working on shared disaster-related challenges. Although each region has its own unique context, many of the issues we face, from floods and droughts to the growing impacts of climate change, are remarkably similar. This creates valuable opportunities to exchange knowledge, compare research approaches, learn from different policy frameworks and share effective ways of engaging with local communities.

Moreover, she mentioned, “Another strength of the programme is its ability to connect people from diverse cultures, backgrounds and disciplines. Collaborating across borders encourages fresh ways of thinking and broadens perspectives, transforming differences into opportunities for innovation rather than barriers. By working towards a common goal, participants build trust, establish lasting professional networks and form friendships that continue to foster collaboration long after the programme has ended”.

Similarly, Engr. William believes the Summer Camp plays a vital role in strengthening ties between the EU and ASEAN by creating opportunities for meaningful knowledge exchange, innovation and long-term partnerships. Bringing researchers, academics and students together in person fosters genuine dialogue, encourages the sharing of diverse perspectives and builds professional networks that extend well beyond the programme itself. While online platforms have made international collaboration more accessible, face-to-face engagement remains invaluable, enabling more natural conversations, stronger personal connections and a deeper sense of trust that forms the foundation of lasting cooperation.

**

About DIGIHAZ Project: In response to the growing climate-related risks posed by natural hazards in ASEAN, the DIGIHAZ project enhances research capacity in EU and ASEAN higher education institutions through a PhD programme and specialised training for early-career researchers in digital tools such as big data, machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT). To learn more about the DIGIHAZ project and future activities, please visit the website www.digihaz.eu