The Vice President of the General Authority for Survey and Geospatial Information, Engineer Ahmed bin Saleh Al-Wasidi, recently welcomed Nick McLean, the President of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), along with his accompanying delegation. This meeting was part of ongoing discussions aimed at exploring collaborative opportunities between the two organizations to enhance and develop national geospatial capabilities.
The partnership between the General Authority and RICS is intended to launch several initiatives aimed at establishing professional standards for practitioners within the surveying, geospatial information, and imaging sectors in the Kingdom. Key aspects of this collaboration include the registration, classification, verification, and professional accreditation of practitioners, as well as promoting educational and training pathways through the National Geospatial Academy. Additionally, the initiative seeks to enhance geospatial awareness and knowledge, driving innovation in the field.
The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors is a globally recognized professional body, boasting nearly 157 years of experience in developing standards and awarding international accreditation to surveyors and professionals across various disciplines. This organization’s mission is to elevate professional practices and improve competencies according to the highest scientific and operational standards.
In accordance with its organizational framework, the General Authority for Survey and Geospatial Information is tasked with regulating the surveying, geospatial information, and imaging sectors within the Kingdom. This encompasses licensing for practice within the sector, overseeing the classification and qualification of practitioners, and formulating the governing regulations. Furthermore, the authority focuses on building and enhancing national capacities in collaboration with universities and specialized institutes, both domestically and internationally.
Through this strategic partnership, both entities aim to foster a culture of excellence and continuous improvement in the geospatial sector. By instituting rigorous professional standards and effective training programs, they aspire to equip practitioners with the necessary skills and knowledge to meet evolving global demands. This collaborative effort not only strengthens the local industry but also positions the Kingdom as a significant player in the international geospatial arena.
The planned initiatives underline a commitment to elevating the quality of services and professionalism within the Kingdom’s geospatial landscape. By aligning local practices with internationally recognized standards, the General Authority aims to create a robust framework that enhances the credibility and reliability of geospatial professionals. This approach will facilitate the integration of advanced technologies and innovative methodologies, thereby fostering a dynamic environment for geospatial research and development.
Moreover, the emphasis on educational pathways through the National Geospatial Academy signifies a forward-thinking strategy to nurture a skilled workforce capable of addressing future challenges in the sector. This educational initiative will play a crucial role in cultivating a new generation of geospatial experts who are well-versed in modern tools and techniques, ultimately contributing to the Kingdom’s development goals.
As the collaboration unfolds, it is anticipated that an increase in geospatial awareness will permeate various sectors, driving economic growth and enhancing the effectiveness of governmental and private initiatives. The mutual commitment of the General Authority and RICS to promoting innovation and excellence in geospatial practices is expected to yield significant benefits for the Kingdom, reinforcing its position as a leader in the geospatial domain.
In summary, the partnership between the General Authority for Survey and Geospatial Information and the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors represents a strategic initiative focused on enhancing professional standards, fostering innovation, and building a skilled workforce in the geospatial sector. Through collaborative efforts, both organizations are poised to make significant strides toward elevating the quality and credibility of geospatial practices in the Kingdom, paving the way for future advancements in the field.
