Langezijds Celebrates Double Party: Geoversity Go-Live and Research Institution of the Year Award
In a double celebration at Langezijds yesterday afternoon, the go-live of Geoversity was joyously commemorated alongside the faculty’s recent accolade as ‚Research, Science & Technology Institution of the Year‘ at the Geospatial World Forum in Rotterdam. The atmosphere was filled with jubilation as ITC dean Freek van der Meer expressed his elation, dubbing himself a ‚happy dean‘ and proudly declaring that he was ‚proud as a peacock‘.
The prestigious award bestowed upon the faculty at the Geospatial World Forum was attributed to their collective efforts in establishing Geoversity. Dean van der Meer emphasized the importance of such a lifelong learning platform in response to the evolving demands of the world. He highlighted the pivotal role that online platforms can play in meeting the needs of individuals to study at their own pace and convenience. Geoversity stands as a strategic pillar for ITC and a significant contribution to the University of Twente’s lifelong learning aspirations.
UT vice-president Machteld Roos echoed these sentiments, congratulating the team behind Geoversity and recognizing its potential to make a substantial impact both within the university and globally. The UT’s vision of lifelong learning as the ‚fourth leg under the table‘ alongside education, research, and valorization aligns with the development of Geoversity. While faculties are actively engaging in activities in this realm, the administrative framework for lifelong learning initiatives is being established at the UT.
Geoversity currently offers seven courses covering a diverse range of topics, including the utilization of drones in precision agriculture and the design of web applications for geospatial data. The platform features contributions from numerous ITC staff members in the form of articles, podcasts, and videos spanning various subjects such as disaster risks, food security, land administration systems, and mineral exploration.
Dean van der Meer envisions Geoversity as the premier online learning platform within ITC’s areas of expertise. Early indicators of success are promising, with notable interest from industry giants like Google, NASA, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Since its launch last Monday, over five hundred individuals have already signed up for Geoversity, with the inaugural course reaching full capacity.
As Geoversity embarks on its journey, the future holds endless possibilities. However, one thing remains certain – there is unwavering confidence in the platform’s potential to revolutionize online learning within the geospatial domain. The celebrations at Langezijds serve as a testament to the dedication and innovation driving Geoversity towards becoming a trailblazer in the field of lifelong learning.