New Geoinformation Centre Launched to Support Sustainable Development and EU Accession in the Western Balkans

02 November 2024

Recognizing the critical role of geoinformation in assessing environmental conditions and making informed decisions on land use, resource management, and conservation, the GEO-WB6 initiative has launched a Geoinformation Centre at the Agricultural University of Tirana. This pioneering project aims to bridge the knowledge and training gap in geoinformation technology within the Western Balkans, supporting the region’s progress toward EU membership by addressing key aspects of Chapter 11 (Agriculture and Rural Development) in the accession negotiations.

The Geoinformation Centre will offer targeted training programs and foster a robust network of geoinformation professionals across the region. Through an array of courses in geodata analysis, students, researchers, public sector employees, and practitioners from the agricultural and environmental sectors will gain essential skills in geoinformation technology. By bolstering local capacity, the Centre aims to equip participants with the expertise needed to leverage geoinformation in support of sustainable land management and conservation.

To ensure long-term impact, the GEO-WB6 Centre will work closely with universities to integrate geoinformation technology into existing curricula. By building these academic partnerships, the Centre envisions becoming a central hub for geodata expertise in the Western Balkans, supporting research advancements and providing guidance for governments, NGOs, and academic institutions alike.

The GEO-WB6 Geoinformation Centre represents a significant step forward in fostering sustainable development, reinforcing the Western Balkans’ readiness for EU accession, and supporting the region in addressing its most pressing environmental challenges.

More information: https://www.geo-wb6.net/