Completed Execution of the "Category B" Marine Spatial Data Programme with Success
Category 'B' Marine Geospatial Information Programme: A Comprehensive Training Initiative
The Category 'B' Marine Geospatial Information Programme, a collaborative effort between the Korea Hydrographic and Oceanographic Agency (KHOA) and the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), has concluded its Phase 3 in July 2017. This programme, which focuses on hydrographic surveying and marine geospatial information, aims to build skills relevant to marine spatial planning and related activities.
In July 2017, the Phase 3 of the programme was delivered at the KHOA in Busan, Republic of Korea. Eight trainees from Bahrain, Cuba, Ecuador, Philippines (2), Republic of Korea (2), and Viet Nam participated in the programme. Upon completion of the final project, these trainees will be qualified as Category "B" cartographers. The programme, supported by the RoK, does not mention any recognition or sponsorship by the FIG/IHO/ICA International Board on Standards of Competence for Hydrographic Surveyors and Nautical Cartographers (IBSC), but it was recognized as Category "B" by the IBSC in April 2014.
Phase 3 of the programme focused on marine spatial data infrastructures and remote sensing for hydrographers. However, the exact topics covered in the programme are not specified. The programme appears to follow the series of the Marine Geospatial Information Programme, but it does not specify the exact phase number.
The knowledge and skills obtained from the programme will be applicable in the trainees' home countries, and they will have the opportunity to share their newfound expertise with their colleagues. The IHO provides information on future programmes through Circular Letters, which can be found on their website (http://www.iho.int).
Looking ahead, the primary upcoming Category 'B' program detailed is the IIC Academy's marine geospatial training starting in September 2025. For expanded, updated, or additional programs, regularly consulting official marine spatial data and training providers’ platforms and international authority publications is advised.
Enrolments for the IIC Academy S-8B Marine Geospatial Information Program starting September 2025 have been announced, indicating ongoing and upcoming educational offerings in this category. To find more information about current and future programs in this category, you can visit the IIC Technologies or IIC Academy official websites and social media channels, check specialized marine spatial planning initiatives such as the Blue Economy CRC, monitor releases and updates from international bodies like the International Seabed Authority, and follow grant opportunities and funding programs related to maritime security and spatial data.
- The Category 'B' Marine Geospatial Information Programme, in collaboration with technology, aims to build skills for marine spatial planning and related activities, including the use of space-and-astronomy for remote sensing in hydrographic surveying.
- In the context of education-and-self-development, the trainees who complete the Category 'B' Marine Geospatial Information Programme will be qualified as Category "B" cartographers and will apply the knowledge and skills they acquire to marine spatial planning in their home countries.
- To stay informed about upcoming Category 'B' programs like the IIC Academy's S-8B Marine Geospatial Information Program, it's essential to consult official marine spatial data and training providers’ platforms, international authority publications, and monitor specialized marine spatial planning initiatives, as well as funding programs related to maritime security and spatial data.
