Appraising competency gaps among UNESCO-designated heritage site actors in disaster risk reduction innovations

Communities residing in UNESCO-designated sites, characterised by outstanding universal values, face heightened vulnerability during disasters, necessitating innovative Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) strategies. The critical role of well-equipped UNESCO site actors in DRR necessary for achieving the goals of broader international frameworks such as Agenda 2030 and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR) warrants this needs assessment study. This study uses a descriptive survey design to assess the competency gaps of UNESCO site actors, including managers and staff, for effective utilisation of DRR innovations (DRRI). Employing the Borich Needs Assessment Model and Ranked Discrepancy Model, an online questionnaire garnered 141 responses from 59 countries. Descriptive statistics, significance tests (at p < .05), correlation tests, Mean Weighted Discrepancy Scores, and Ranked Discrepancy Scores yielded noteworthy findings. Despite recognising the importance of DRRI, respondents demonstrated competence lags, emphasizing the need for tailored training programs. Competency gaps were identified across all 14 listed DRRI, with top priorities including disaster prevention radio, telemetry systems, unmanned aerial vehicles, GIS, remote sensing, resilient materials, and disaster risk insurance. Enhancing competencies in DRRI presents a strategic approach to bolstering disaster preparedness, management, and risk reduction efforts, aligning with global conservation and sustainability goals.