Geographical Information Systems Education at the University of Zimbabwe; Issues and Future Prospects

Daniel T. Semwayo and Patrick Matambanadzo
University of Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe

Geographical information systems (GIS) are gaining prominence as a unifying force in multi-disciplinary research. Analysis of complex phenomena of a spatial nature has become so much easier with the advent of this tool. There is growing demand for personnel with GIS skills from within city councils, government planning departments and the private sector.

In response to this demand, the University of Zimbabwe has embarked on training and research programs in GIS and it's various areas of application. The target groups are graduate students from diverse disciplinary backgrounds, university departments and middle managers from government, non-governmental organizations and from the private sector.

The Surveying department has put together two graduate training programs leading to the award of a diploma and a Master of Science degree in Geographical Information Systems. The Institute of Environmental Studies is designing various programs to stimulate interest in GIS within the university departments and to educate mid-career professionals in the use of the information technology.

This paper examines the subtle issues that have to be considered to produce well rounded skilled practitioners in GIS for the good of the intended market.

Daniel T. Semwayo
Institute of Environmental Studies
University of Zimbabwe
P.O. Box MP 167
Harare, Zimbabwe
fax:263-4-335249
e-mail: ies@harare.iafrica.com

Patrick Matambanadzo
Surveying Department
University of Zimbabwe
P.O. Box MP 167
Harare, Zimbabwe
fax:263-4-333407
e-mail:paddy@survey.uz.zw