PROGRAMME: Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation (2012)
Before Itc
My interest in geo-information science and earth observation has grown because of the quality of teaching concerning remote sensing and GIS. I hold an MSc in Geology with a specialization in Mineral Exploration. Coming to ITC for a short time, I was really exposed to the use of remote sensing and GIS in the field of mineral exploration − even though it is a tough place!
Experience at ITC
Studying at ITC makes one stay focused and independent. When it comes to remote sensing and GIS, ITC is the best place to study. During my stay at ITC, I learnt how to use software such as ILWIS, ArcGIS, Surfer8, Oasis Montaj, SPSS and ENVI for analysing data. For my project, I worked on the initiative Regional Mineral Exploration in the Moura Area, Alentejo, Portugal. I still look forward to coming back for further study at ITC because of the high quality of education there. I work for the Raw Materials Research and Development Council, Abuja, Nigeria. It is a parastatal of the Federal Government of Nigeria. My responsibilities are as follows:
- carrying out environmental impact assessment of proposed mining sites
- monitoring projects under my supervision
- technically liaising with project researchers
- evaluating and assessing projects under my supervision (coal, columbite, plaster of Paris etc.)
- preparing an annual action plan for my division.
GIS is used in the area of environmental impact assessment. The fact that I can use these software packages gives me great satisfaction. I intend to pursue my education to PhD level, but may first have to obtain another MSc in geo-information science.
Advice
My advice to current students is to work hard and try to understand what they are taught in class. They should make judicious use of their time. I would say to prospective students that ITC is a tough place, so they should come with a positive mindset and then they will make it.
My best wishes to everyone.