On April 7, 2025, students from grades 9 and 10 at Veritas Collegiate Academy joined more than 170 high schoolers for the annual Open Day at the Educational Center for Disaster Management. The day was filled with excitement, hands-on learning, and powerful insights into the world of emergency response.

A Powerful Start to the Day – The event kicked off with a live traffic accident rescue simulation, where students witnessed the precision and speed of trained professionals. The rescue teams explained each step of the process, giving students a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to manage real-life emergencies.

Meeting the Heroes And Their Dogs – One of the most unforgettable parts of the day was meeting the rescue dogs who had served in international missions in Turkey and Myanmar. Our students had the chance to learn about how these dogs are trained, the types of missions they support, and the strong bond between them and their handlers. The experience left a lasting impression on everyone.

Technology and Teamwork in Action – Students also explored the high-tech equipment used in disaster situations, including a mobile disaster management lab, firefighting vehicles, and alpine rescue tools. They were even able to try on official rescue uniforms, giving them a better sense of the physical demands and readiness needed in the field.

Interactive Learning That Engaged Everyone – The day was packed with interactive activities, from quizzes and group tasks to coordination challenges in low-visibility environments. These hands-on exercises helped students apply critical thinking and teamwork in real-time scenarios—skills essential in emergencies and everyday life.

Exploring Careers and Real-Life Applications – Beyond the demos, students spoke with professionals from various fields, including fire prevention, search and rescue, and chimney inspection. Through direct conversations and visual displays, they gained insight into the many paths within disaster management and public service. Colonel István Ördög, Head of the Disaster Management Education and Examination Center, opened the event with inspiring remarks. He emphasized the need to educate and engage the next generation in the diverse, meaningful work of disaster prevention and emergency response. He also introduced the ongoing work of the Disaster Prevention Institute at the National University of Public Service.

An Open Day to Remember – Our Veritas students showed genuine interest, asked thoughtful questions, and engaged eagerly with every part of the program. They left with more than just knowledge—they gained perspective, inspiration, and a new respect for those working in this critical field.
This Open Day was a true highlight of the year. We’re incredibly grateful to the organizers for offering our students such a rich and memorable experience.

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