Perspectives on Developing Critical Human GI Capacity in a Developing Country Context

Abstract

The geospatial industry is experiencing unprecedented growth despite the global financial maelstrom. Consequently, the demand for manpower skilled in geographic information science (GISc) and technologies is great and this holds true both in developed and developing countries. Projections globally is that of a shortfall in the supply of geospatially skilled manpower. There is therefore the urgent need to develop a critical mass of geospatial specialists. In a developing country context as Rwanda, the awareness is high of the use of geographic information (GI) for economic development. Currently, every ministry is seeking to produce location based data and information in their respective domains. This is exemplified by the fact that GIS positions were recently created in the ministries. With increasing demand for GI personnel in both public and private sectors, there is need to develop human GI capacity. This chapter describes strategies currently being used in geospatial manpower development in Rwanda. It reviews the state of available programs vis-a-vis the areas of need with the aim of highlighting gaps in existing curriculum. In addition to the regular or traditional model of course delivery, other options for training and educating geospatial personnel are discussed and recommendations made based on lessons learnt.