An Insight from Organizing CLImbing for CLImate GEOspatial School (CLIGEOS-2024) in Mountainous Regions

Abstract. This paper delves into the multifaceted experiences and insights garnered from organizing a short-term training programme aimed at professionals, students, academics, and climate enthusiasts. The programme, named CLImbing for CLImate GEOspatial School (CLIGEOS-2024), was a collaborative effort by the International Society of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ISPRS) and ISPRS Student Consortium (ISPRS-SC) alongside Center for space science and geomatics studies (CSSGS) Pashchimanchal campus, Institute of Engineering, Tribhuvan University, Nepal, Universita’ Degli Studi Di Udine, Italy and LJ University, India aimed at addressing environmental challenges, particularly in hill and mountain regions. Despite facing logistical and communication hurdles due to the geographical dispersion of organizing institutions, the event successfully brought together participants with backgrounds in GIS, remote sensing, agriculture, and forestry. The programme was structured to promote participatory learning and project-based learning methodologies, incorporating classroom teaching, hands-on activities, fieldwork, data collection, short projects, quizzes, and evaluation mechanisms. Through a meticulously planned sequence, participants engaged in theoretical lectures, practical sessions on drone technology, industry expert presentations, and a mountain trek to observe climate change phenomena first-hand. Despite challenges related to infrastructure, including limited internet connectivity and access to data, the programme served as a catalyst for raising awareness about climate change and promoting sustainable practices. Key takeaways highlighted the importance of spatial data analysis, interdisciplinary collaboration, and hands-on learning in advancing solutions for sustainable development. The paper concludes with lessons learned from the programme, providing insights for future initiatives aimed at capacity building and knowledge dissemination.