IGSM offers global insights for UK geospatial students

Geospatial education in the UK is being cut back, affecting the sector and creating a skills gap. Recently Newcastle University closed its degree course and now there is only one remaining undergraduate course run by the University of East London and a handful of postgraduate courses.

One consequence of this has been that the UK has sent no students to the International Geodetic Student Meeting (IGSM) for seven years. However, this year we were fortunate to be sponsored by RICS and become the first students from the UK to attend the IGSM since 2018.

The IGSM was held outside Europe for the first time this year, hosted at the Institut Agronomique et Vétérinaire Hassan II in May, in the city of Rabat in Morocco with the theme of geospatial in the digital era. The event included technical workshops and academic presentations exploring the future of the discipline, as well as cultural activities.

Around 100 students from 22 countries attended, including ourselves: three second-year undergraduates, representing both the UK and our institution, Newcastle University. Two of us are studying the BSc Geographic information science and one is taking a BEng in Geospatial surveying and mapping.

On the opening day we were welcomed by the lovely IGSM coordinators, who presented us with souvenirs before sharing a Moroccan meal. This informal gathering was the first of many opportunities to meet fellow students in a relaxed setting.

A full day was then dedicated to selected students' research presentations. This began with oral presentations on completed projects, including one on the use of remote sensing technology to detect solar panels and the development of a map showing the historical classification of buildings in Zagreb, Croatia.

Adam and Ansel attended a lecture on Moroccan land law, including tribal land claims and the application of GIS technologies to monitor and map land boundaries.

A workshop on 3D city models and urban digital twins provided a valuable insight for Ansel, who intends to use 3D GIS in his dissertation project. John, meanwhile, attended a presentation on the roles of GeoAI in decision-making and a photogrammetry workshop on turning drone images into point clouds.

Presentations were followed by questions from a panel of experts, and a discussion with students in the audience. This format encouraged collaboration, with many students suggesting ways to develop or advance the research.

Topics ranged from undergraduate dissertation work, such as using LiDAR scanning to produce 3D digital models of a historical buildings, to proposals for PhD or postdoctoral research, including the use of geospatial satellites to measure solid Earth deformation and tectonic effects in Antarctica.

As we were relatively new to the sector, the posters showed us where our studies might lead and how our knowledge could be applied beyond traditional surveying and mapping for engineering projects. It also provided some inspiration as we explore potential ideas for our upcoming dissertation projects.

One poster we found particularly interesting was a study by the Geodetic Student Council of German-speaking countries (KonGeoS) on the demographics and opinions of the young professionals in the sector. The findings emphasised the need to attract more students into geospatial – a challenge of particular interest to us given the recent closure of our geospatial degree course in Newcastle.

Exploring the city in small teams, we visited Hassan Tower, commissioned in the late 12th century by Almohad Caliph Abū Yūsuf Ya̒qūb al-Manṣūr, who intended it to be the world's tallest minaret and the grandest mosque in the western Muslim world. The Mausoleum of Mohammed V was our next stop. Its gleaming white marble porticos and polylobed dome illuminated by coloured glass and walls of vibrant zellij tiles echoed with the hushed recitation of the Quran.

There was a full-day excursion to experience Morocco's natural landscapes, beginning with a visit to Akchour, known for its gorges, waterfalls and clear natural pools. The day continued in Chefchaouen, the Blue City, where streets painted in varying shades of the colour and vibrant market stalls emphasised the city's distinct identity. Each street told its own story.

Later in the week, we saw Rabat from a new angle by kayaking along the shoreline. With music, casual conversation and games, this beach day was one of our most memorable experiences in Morocco. The week concluded with an Arabian Nights-themed gala dinner. Live music and traditional Moroccan cuisine created a warm, celebratory atmosphere. By this stage, strong bonds had been created and in that moment, we felt like a family. It's a night that will stay with us forever.

Although Morocco's architecture and landscapes were striking, the most lasting impression came from the hospitality of its people. Locals were consistently welcoming and often went above and beyond to help us.

For anyone considering attending, we have two pieces of advice. First, prepare in advance – familiarise yourself with the host city, local phrases and public transport for a smoother and less stressful experience.

While English was commonly used by organisers and participants, locals primarily spoke French and Arabic, with Amazigh – an official Moroccan language – on signs. At the airport we struggled to explain our destination to the bus driver. Despite the difficulty, he adjusted his route to drop us closer to our accommodation, reflecting the generosity and kindness we encountered throughout the week.

Second, engage fully with the entire programme. Asking questions, sharing insights and embracing the cultural activities made for a more memorable experience. To be a successful geospatial professional you must not only possess strong technical capabilities, you also need global awareness and adaptability. These qualities are increasingly important in a field shaped by rapid technology change and international collaboration.

We are confident that the relationships we formed and the lessons we learned will help in shaping both our final year of study and our future careers. Conversations with participants also gave us some insight into potential career paths in geospatial and the way the profession is evolving around the world. We look forward to continuing this spirit of collaboration at the 38th IGSM in Zagreb, Croatia, next year.

We are grateful for the generous support of RICS, whose sponsorship made our attendance possible. The organisation's contribution enabled us to represent our university and gain first-hand experience of the international geospatial community.