Enhancing Global Partnerships in Digital Mapping and Technology at KCA University

In today’s interconnected world, international collaboration in technology and research is essential for advancing innovation and sharing knowledge. In recognition of this, KCA University will host an esteemed delegation from China’s Department of Natural Resources of Zhejiang Province. The five-day visit is scheduled in November 2024 to explore collaboration, spark ideas and identify potential partnerships for shaping the future of digital mapping, spatial planning and spatiotemporal artificial intelligence (AI).

Background

KCA University has for a long time been at the forefront of research, innovation and outreach and has continually sought global partnerships to advance academic and professional opportunities for students and faculty. The visit by this high-profile Chinese delegation emphasizes the University’s commitment to international engagement and knowledge exchange, in line with its vision, mission and strategy. The delegation comprises distinguished leaders in digital technology and land management such as Mr. Min Jianping (Deputy Director General of Zhejiang’s Department of Natural Resources), Ms. Zhang Bifan (Director of Land Surveying and Mapping), Mr. Fang Jianyu (Director of the National Land and Space Planning Bureau), Mr. Jiang Jianming (Senior officer in land space use control), Ms. Gong Lifang (Director of Surveying and Mapping Geographic Information at the Zhejiang Academy of Surveying and Mapping) and Mr. Pan Zhenhua (member of the Deqing County Standing Committee and Minister of the Organization Department)Objectives of the Collaborative Visit

The purpose of the visit is multifaceted. It aims to build bridges between Kenya and China in cutting-edge fields such as geographic information systems (GIS), spatial planning and AI. Specifically, the collaboration is designed with the following aims:

To foster exchange of knowledge through seminars and interactive sessions. KCA University students and faculty will engage with experts in digital mapping, spatiotemporal AI and land use technologies. This direct access to global leaders in the specialized fields will provide invaluable insights and learning opportunities for the KCA University community.
To explore opportunities for future cooperation in digital technology between KCA University and Zhejiang Province’s Natural Resources Department, particularly in remote sensing, data fusion and predictive models for geographic information. Such technologies are critical for environmental management, urban planning and sustainability.
To identify ways of facilitating student and staff exchanges between Kenya and China. This is a development pathway that will allow participants to gain exposure to diverse academic environments and help them to acquire skills that are critical in today’s globalized workforce.

The Role of KCA UniversityAs a leader in research, innovation and outreach, the University provides a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange to generate a culture of critical thinking. Students and faculty are encouraged to consistently explore cutting-edge solutions in digital technologies. The collaborative visit and partnership is a mechanism for empowering the KCA University community with real-world experiences and insights from global experts to extend the learning experience and contribute to Kenya’s technological advancement.

The university is committed to creating fertile ground for student and staff innovators to collaborate with international experts, access diverse perspectives and apply advanced technologies to solve local problems. With its thriving student community, dedicated faculty and robust partnerships, KCA University is strategically positioned to support impactful collaborations that will drive technological and educational advancements across the African region.

Join the Conversation

The collaborative visit promises to be a memorable and transformative experience for KCA University. It will create new possibilities for students, staff and the broader community. Stay tuned to our blog and social media for updates and insights from this collaborative. Join us as we work together to make a difference in digital mapping, spatial technologies and international cooperation.

For more information, contact us at dvcrio@kcau.ac.ke or visit our website at www.kcau.ac.ke