Abstract:

Geospatial Technology has rapidly appeared as a transformative discipline driving the adoption of modern emerging technologies. As the primary source of technology industrialization, higher learning institutions (HLIs) play a crucial role, with the potential to significantly influence strategic development projects through education consultancy, outreach, and research. At the State University of Zanzibar, Computer Science and Social Sciences staff and students have actively engaged in several geospatial projects that have accelerated the adoption of geospatial technologies among various stakeholders. This study aims to explore the educational impact of HLIs on the geospatial ecosystem in Zanzibar. Specifically, the research identifies the current state of geospatial innovation within higher learning institutions, examines the challenges, approaches, practices, and opportunities for HLIs to enhance their contributions to the geospatial ecosystems, and proposes strategies to strengthen the capacity of these institutions. The study also provides recommendations for governmental support to ensure the growth and sustainability of the geospatial ecosystem in Zanzibar. The research employed the participatory action research method, revealing the significant advancements in geospatial adoption driven by collaborative efforts between HLIs and other organizations. One of the key findings of this research is the role of education programs in the geospatial field, whereby students who were initially involved as trainees have transitioned into professional roles, reinforcing the geospatial ecosystem. This transition underscores the potential for growth and development and the transformative power of education in the geospatial field. Additionally, the supplement of an online survey highlighted the critical importance of sustaining geospatial initiatives, which have fostered innovations across Zanzibar. Despite these achievements, the study underscores the need to empower the geospatial ecosystem further to create more opportunities for innovators to develop sustainable solutions for the country's progress.

Keywords:

Geospatial ecosystem, Participatory action research, Geospatial technologies, Higher learning Institutions, GIS.