Implementation of new geoinformatics curricula at Ethiopian Universities − Li4LaM Erasmus+

Sustainable management of Earth’s resources requires that decision-makers have access to up-to-date and reliable geospatial data. Well-trained professionals in natural resource administration, including land-use management, can be supported through the use of satellite imagery, digital photogrammetry (including low-altitude UAV), and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in decision-making processes related to spatial planning.
The partners of the project “Land Information for Land Management” (Li4LaM, ERASMUS-EDU-2022-CBHE-Project: 101083003) include: European institutions — Technische Universität Wien (TUW, Project Coordinator), University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU), University of Agriculture in Krakow (UAK), and University of Ljubljana (UL); and Ethiopian institutions — Debre Markos University (DMU), Bahir Dar University (BDU), Woldia University (WU), and Addis Ababa University (AAU).
The main objective of the Li4LaM project is to develop and deliver state-of-the-art teaching materials for 12 existing study modules related to land management, offered at four Ethiopian universities. In addition, one new module (5 ECTS) tailored to the specific land-management needs of each partner university will be developed, as well as one Lifelong Learning (LLL) module (10 ECTS) designed to enhance the qualifications of local professionals in this field. All modules will be supported by comprehensive teaching materials suitable for both online and in-person delivery. For the four Ethiopian partner institutions, the project will also prepare an LLL strategy and a Quality Assurance and Accreditation Manual for lifelong learning programmes.
Ethiopian universities currently face a severe shortage of up-to-date teaching resources. The Li4LaM project aims to fill this gap by providing educational materials in electronic format, thereby improving access for Ethiopian students. Educational videos, animations, recorded lectures, and textbooks in PDF format will be made available through learning management systems implemented at all Ethiopian partner universities. The Li4LaM project will thus strengthen pedagogical and didactic skills, as well as competencies in developing cutting-edge educational materials.