Study

Origins and backgrounds of course participants

A multicultural environment with course participants from over 170 countries

The origins and backgrounds of ITC course participants have a significant influence on the educational processes. The majority of these participants are professionals in their respective fields, with prior academic training and (often) professional experience. Consequently, professional relevancy and problem orientation are important factors in designing ITC’s training courses, with the emphasis on the application of concepts and skills.

Our courses aim at providing in-depth study of a particular set of problems in developing countries and countries in transition. They attract young and mid-career professionals with an interest in development-related issues.

First impressions

At the official ceremony on the occasion of the Opening of the Academic Year two students from Nepal and Indonesia offered their first impressions and expressed high expectations on what they want to achieve on a new continent, where they both will begin a study programme at the Faculty of Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation.

You have been in the Netherlands for only 19 days now. What do you expect of your 18-month study period in a new country?

“I held a professional position in geo-information for the Ministry of Land Reform and Management in Nepal and came here to learn more in this field of study and develop my knowledge on new geo-information systems. Later I hope to bring this knowledge back to my country. When I finish my degree and return to Nepal, I’m required to work for three years for our national government. I am just feeling grateful to the Dutch Government for providing a scholarship and having this opportunity to study at the ITC.

The opening lecture by Professor Pontius helped me to consider proper time management and guidelines for my study period. I have to learn so many things about Dutch society next to my normal study schedule. As new students, we have a chance to fulfil our dreams at the ITC. So far, I can only say about the Dutch that they seem to accept a broad range of cultures. I have to learn more about the Dutch as time goes by. It’s hard to have an impression yet of the Netherlands.” Umesh Kumar, 32, Nepal

What do you think about the Netherlands after two weeks and of the lecture you just heard?

“Indonesian has a topical climate and I’m still adjusting to the Dutch weather. People told me that this summer was one of the coldest summers in history. It’s a new experience to be on another continent. I have to get used to the bicycles and a smaller country. We have 230 million people who mainly use cars to get around to places. As a consequence, we have lots of traffic jams in Jakarta. Already I noticed the difference, it’s much quieter here and well-organized.

From a technical perspective, our first lecture by Professor Pontius opened our eyes about GIS models in a completely different way. It wasn’t a typical welcome speech but from a different angle and much more interesting than I’d expected. He knows exactly what he’s talking about.” Mulya Utami, 30, Jakarta, Indonesia

Robbin Engels
Source: UT Nieuws