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MACHINE LEARNING FOR EARTH OBSERVATION – SUCCESSFUL TRAINING IN KIGALI

Posted on 30 May, 2023 by Andrii Makrushyn

As part of the initiative FAIR Forward implemented by GIZ on behalf of German Federal Ministry of Development and Economic Cooperation together with Rwanda Space Agency, GFA developed a curriculum aimed at providing training to aspiring data scientists in  Machine Learning for Earth Observation (ML4EO). The project is implemented in collaboration with Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) Africa and University of Rwanda CGIS.

The availability of satellite imagery provides significant possibilities for monitoring various aspects of the Earth’s surface, including agricultural practices. To understand and use the extensive and diverse range of Earth Observation (EO) data, Machine Learning (ML) has, in recent years, become increasingly important.

While Rwanda is a recognized innovation and technology hub, it still faces a few challenges in using EO data. Therefore, an approach was needed to harness the vast volumes of data, and make it necessary to develop the skills required to work effectively with EO data.

In May 2023, a group of junior data scientists participated in the second onsite training block at GIZ’s Digital Transformation Center in Kigali. The primary objective of this curriculum was to enhance Rwanda’s capacities in ML4EO. Additionally, the program enabled participants to apply their newly acquired skills directly by working on ML4EO applications in the agricultural sector.