The Workshop for the Americas is jointly organized by the United Nations World Geodetic Centre of Excellence (UN-GGCE) and the Statistics Division of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs, with the collaboration of the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC).

The UN-GGCE envisions the future where all countries have a strong support for geodesy, enabling them – together – implement the General Assembly Resolution 69/266 and to accelerate the achievements of the Sustainable Development Goals and derive social, environmental and economic benefits. Key to achieving these benefits is the establishment of a modern GRS on which geospatial data can be aligned and combined for improved decision making.

This workshop is part of the Geodesy Capacity Development Workshop series, which serves as a platform to strengthen global geodetic capabilities, ensuring that all Member States are equipped to support sustainable development through accurate and reliable geospatial information. The workshops will be provided across the five regions: Africa, Americas, Arab States, Asia-Pacific and Europe. Each workshop will run for five days (Monday to Friday) and will take place in person.

Workshop Objectives

The primary objectives of the workshops are to:

• Communicate the importance of geodesy by equipping participants with the necessary tools and strategies to effectively communicate the value of geodesy to decision-makers, supporting the aim for increased investment in geodetic infrastructure and capacity.
• Provide guidance on modern GRS and describe the steps to create, access, use and sustain a modern GRS. This includes technical guidance with hands-on sessions to demonstrate important geodetic processes including geodetic adjustments and developing transformation parameters.
• Assist with the development of international geodetic standards, particularly for the ISO Geodetic Register and EPSG Register.
• Provide guidance on establishing the necessary governance structures within governmental frameworks to oversee and manage the modernization of a country’s GRS.
• Assist in the development of a Communications and Stakeholder Engagement Plan.

Workshop Highlights

• Interactive Sessions: Hands-on training with the latest geodetic technologies and various geodetic methodologies.
• Expert Discussions: Engage with leading experts through dynamic panel discussions and other interactive sessions. Exchange of experience with professionals from different Member States and institutions.
• Technical Assistance: Receive guidance on developing practical technical manuals and communication strategies tailored to the national context.
• Networking Events: Build connections with professionals from your region and beyond, facilitating the exchange of best practices and innovative ideas.

Target Audience

• Surveying or geodetic professionals and practitioners: Individuals actively involved in geodetic work at a national or international level.
• Government officials: Representatives actively involved in technical geodetic processes and implementation.
• Academics and Researchers: Members of the academic community engaged in geodesy and related fields.
• Representatives from geodetic organisations: Individuals affiliated with professional bodies and organisations in the field of geodesy.

Benefits of Participation

• Develop tailored roadmaps for modernizing their national geospatial reference system.
• Gain practical experience with geodetic technologies and methods.
• Network with international geodesy professionals and share best practices.
• Learn to effectively communicate the importance of geodesy to decision-makers.