Empowering women in geospatial information technology – 2024 edition

Date 9 Jul 2024 to 12 Jul 2024
Venue Virtual (Zoom)
Contact Persons Poonam Tripathi
Type Virtual training
Programmes SERVIR-HKH

Agenda

About the training

The SERVIR-HKH Initiative is organising this training to empower young women from the eight Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) countries in geospatial information technology (GIT). This iteration of the training will focus on air quality (AQ) with the utilisation of Earth Observation (EO) data and GIT.

We will be using a blended learning approach incorporating presentations and guided practical exercises. The training will cover a wide range of topics including the fundamental principles of geographic information systems (GIS), basic concepts of remote sensing (RS) and its application for AQ monitoring, GIS data use and visualisation, map production and the knowledge and use of AQ data products, tools, and platforms, to understand emerging AQ issues.

Objectives

We aim to train young women from the HKH region on the use of EO data and GIT to empower and enable them to use different AQ applications. By equipping women with the necessary skills and knowledge, we aim to bridge the gender gap in the EO/GIT sector and foster women’s leadership in this field across the HKH countries.

Expected outcomes

Upon completion of the training, participants will have a better understanding of the concepts and applications of EO and GIT linked to AQ services and applications, which will enable them to use the knowledge gained professionally.

Expected participants

We expect to take in 200 young women participants, 25 from each HKH country, with academic backgrounds in the fields of geography, science, engineering, survey, environmental science, and/or information technology.

Interested candidates may apply for participation here: https://forms.icimod.org/regional-action/wogit-2024-edition/

The deadline for the submission of applications is 25 June 2024. Selected candidates will be informed via email by 30 June 2024.

Participation requisites

  • This training is only meant for women from the HKH countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan
  • Applicants should have completed a bachelor’s degree or be enrolled in a university-level curriculum at the time of application
  • Attendance in the training is free
  • The training will be online on Zoom; no travel and accommodation is not covered
  • Selected candidates must ensure the following:
    • Access to a computer with the Windows operating system installed
    • Ability to install and run open-source GIS software
    • Access to good internet connection to support audio/video lectures
    • Be available to attend the online sessions from 13:00–17:00 (NPT)

*Please check the agenda for timings of daily sessions

  • Participants will receive a certificate of completion only upon satisfactory completion of the following requirements.
    • Attendance: Attend at least 80% of the training sessions
    • Assessment forms: Complete the pre- and post-training assessment forms, which will be provided during the training
  • Questions regarding selection and/or participation will not be considered.

Speakers/facilitators

ICIMOD

  • Arshini Saikia, Air Quality Modelling Analyst
  • Bhupesh Adhikary, Senior Air Quality Specialist
  • Birendra Bajracharya, Chief of Party, SERVIR-HKH
  • Poonam Tripathi, Training Analyst
  • Rajesh Bahadur Thapa, Senior Remote Sensing and Geoinformation Specialist
  • Suman Sanjel, Air Quality Application Development Associate

Background

Despite their pivotal role in environmental management and decision-making, women are often underrepresented in these critical fields. This gender disparity is particularly prevalent in the HKH region. Recognising this disparity, the SERVIR-HKH Initiative proactively organised WoGIT trainings for young and early-career women since 2018.

Empowering women in EO and GIT is essential for effectively addressing the pressing air pollution challenges in the HKH region. By leveraging EO data and GIT, participants can accurately monitor, analyse, and manage air quality parameters on both local and global scales. Equipping women with the necessary skills and knowledge not only addresses gender disparities but also enhances our collective ability to monitor and forecast air quality in the region.

As air pollution continues to pose a significant threat to both the environment and public health, particularly in highly affected areas, such as Kathmandu, Delhi, Dhaka, and Lahore, capacity building in air quality monitoring become increasingly imperative. The advanced capabilities offered by EO and GIT, including high spatiotemporal information on trace gases and aerosols, enable better-informed decision-making and facilitate more effective strategies to mitigate the impacts of air pollution. Therefore, by prioritising the empowerment of women in EO/GIT, we not only contribute to reducing gender disparities but also strengthen our collective resilience to the challenges posed by air pollution in the HKH region and beyond.