The National Search and Rescue Centre (NSRC) recently concluded the third edition of the International Search and Rescue Conference and Exhibition (INSRC) 2024, held under the patronage of H.E. Mohammed bin Mubarak Fadel Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Defence Affairs.
The global event, focused on showcasing cutting-edge innovations and best practices in the search and rescue sector, was originally set to be held from February 12 to 14, 2024, but was extended to an additional day to accommodate a surge in interest.
The INSRC 2024, held at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), witnessed broad participation from major international companies operating in the search and rescue sector, bringing together a diverse range of experts, decision-makers, researchers, and specialists.
Attendees engaged in discussions, workshops, and presentations highlighting the latest advancements and technologies in search and rescue, with artificial intelligence (AI) as a particular area of focus.
INSRC 2024 also served as a platform for academic and research institutions to raise public awareness about the significance of search and rescue, and emergency response operations.
Further, the event aimed to equip university students with practical skills and experiences, encouraging them to pursue careers in this field.
INSRC 2024 particularly focused on the contribution of women in search and rescue operations and celebrated the achievements of female personnel who have demonstrated exceptional competence and efficiency in executing search and rescue missions.
During the event, several memorandums of understanding (MOUs) and collaboration between NSRC and various partners and specialised institutions, including Emirates Auctions and Dubai Petroleum, were also signed.
In addition, the Center entered into agreements with Bayanat, Falcon Aviation Services, and AeroGulf to establish collaborative frameworks for the implementation and operation of Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT).
Colonel Staff Pilot/ Rashed Al Naqbi, Manager of National Search and Rescue Centre (NSRC), said: “We are extremely proud of the resounding success of the third edition of INSRC 2024. This event served as a significant global platform that brought together industry leaders, who showcased the latest advancements in search and rescue methodologies and innovations. It also provided an opportunity to address the challenges faced in this vital sector and explore potential solutions, shaping the future of the sector. INSRC 2024 significantly bolstered the NSRC’s leading position in the industry, fostering strategic partnerships through collaborative agreements with esteemed institutions. These partnerships are in line with the directives of our wise leadership to foster cooperation, innovation, and the integration of cutting-edge technology in advancing search and rescue endeavors. I would like to take this moment to express my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to everyone involved in this field. Your unwavering dedication and sacrifices in saving lives and protecting public safety are sincerely commendable.”
The International Search and Rescue Conference and Exhibition was held in collaboration with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), and the Cyber Security Council.
Etisalat, GAL, and Abu Dhabi Aviation were the platinum sponsors of the event, while Bayanat, Bill Textron, Airlink International, Department of Health, Abu Dhabi Ports Group, and Leonardo were the golden sponsors.
Silver sponsors of the event included Mass Virtual, Abu Dhabi Health Services SEHA, Emirates Auctions, Airbus, Collins Aerospace, and Rabdan Academy.