UNILAK in partnership with XIEG-CAS and SAJOREC successfully hosted a one day workshop on Multi-Hazard Monitoring with GIS and Remote Sensing (RS) Technologies, bringing together students, researchers, and professionals committed to advancing Rwanda’s disaster risk reduction and climate resilience efforts.
The training was designed to strengthen national capacities in geospatial science and directly support Rwanda’s strategies for disaster risk reduction, climate adaptation, and sustainable development.
Through hands-on sessions, participants were equipped with essential skills in remote sensing, geospatial analysis, and earth observation tools that play a vital role in monitoring climate-related hazards and guiding data-driven decision-making.
At the opening workshop, Mr. Richard Niyonkuru, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Administration and Finance at UNILAK warmly welcomed all participants and extended sincere appreciation to the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography (XIEG) for their longstanding support in advancing geospatial knowledge at UNILAK. He encouraged participants to make the most of the training and wished them a productive experience.
Representing the Chinese Embassy, Mr. Zhang Xiaohong, a senior official highlighted the enduring partnership between UNILAK and XIEG-CAS, which dates back to 2012. He celebrated the fruitful outcomes of this collaboration, including several joint research projects and the establishment of a shared research center dedicated to soil, water, and geospatial technologies. This cooperation, he noted, continues to be a cornerstone of China-Africa scientific exchange and capacity-building.
Throughout the workshop, participants engaged in comprehensive courses on geospatial analysis, remote sensing applications, and the use of earth observation data in monitoring climate-related disaster risks across Rwanda. Each session was accompanied by interactive Q&A segments, allowing participants to deepen their understanding and exchange ideas with experts.
The workshop concluded with a certificate presentation ceremony, where participants were recognized for their dedication and achievements.