ITC Faculty of the University of Twente
The mission of the Faculty of Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation (ITC) of the University of Twente is to develop capacity, particularly in less developed countries by working in three main pillars: education, research and institutional strengthening for which the use of geo-information is the main driver. ITC’s vision is that spatial solutions will play an increasingly important role in meeting many of mankind’s complex challenges such as climate change, population growth, and related claims for sufficient and secure natural resources.
In this context, ITC provides international postgraduate education (Master and PhD programs), short and tailor-made courses, research and project services in the field of geo-information science and earth observation. Through the years ITC has established an excellent track record in the use of this geoinformation for scenarios development, planning, management and monitoring of resources. In order to tackle present societal challenges ITC offers programs and services in the fields or Food security, Disaster Management, Geo-heath, Governance, Water Management and Smart Cities among others.
Many of the world’s major environmental concerns have to do with water. Security of water resources has emerged as one of the key problems in the 21st century. Floods, droughts, water scarcity, water usage, water quality, water&ecosystems and water&climate interactions are all issues relevant to our society.The key to safeguard the security of water resources is an improved water resources management. This requires in turn better understanding the water cycle, water climate interactions and water ecosystem interactions.
Current international initiatives have placed Earth Observation of water cycle as the key in helping to solve the world's water problems. The availability of spatial information on water quantity and quality will also enable closure of the water budget on river basin and continental scales to the point where effective water management is possible. ITC meet these challenges by offering higher academic education and professional training, executing fundamental and applied research in Earth Observation for water resources and through advisory project services related to water management.
