The American University of Central Asia (AUCA) partnered with Central European University (CEU) to host a two-day OSUN's GeoHub conference on "The Application of Geospatial Technologies in the Public Sector" on April 15-16, 2025, at AUCA’s Bishkek campus. The event brought together students, faculty, and GIS experts to discuss how geospatial tools can tackle pressing challenges in governance, urban planning, environmental management, and public services.
Arnold Nagy, a consultant for the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), opened the conference with a keynote on the transformative potential of geospatial technologies in the public sector. His talk highlighted real-world applications in infrastructure, urban development, and environmental conservation.
The session also fostered lively discussions between AUCA and CEU students and professors, exploring how GIS intersects with social and environmental sciences. Participants emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between universities, professionals, and international organizations to drive innovation in the field.
The second day shifted to a roundtable format, where researchers and practitioners presented case studies on geospatial solutions for sustainable development in Central Asia. Topics ranged from natural hazard mapping and urban planning to the study of informal settlements, showcasing the versatility of geospatial tools in addressing regional issues.
A major highlight was AUCA’s announcement of a new Master’s program in Urbanism, Design, and Geospatial Technologies, launching in September 2025. This cutting-edge program is made possible through a partnership with OSUN's GeoHub initiative. This program builds on AUCA’s expertise in urban studies and responds to the growing demand for professionals who can merge design thinking with geospatial technology to shape smarter, more sustainable cities. AUCA officials believe the program will help meet the growing regional demand for urban specialists equipped with both design thinking and technical expertise, ultimately contributing to the reshaping of Central Asia's urban landscape for generations to come.
The GeoHub initiative, jointly developed by CEU and Bard College, will provide AUCA students with hands-on training, internships, and professional certification through the university's Tien Shan Policy Center and the Department of Ecology. Thanks to this collaboration, AUCA has already received 50 licenses of ArcGIS, a leading GIS software. The Tien Shan Policy Center and Department of Ecology will oversee GeoHub’s activities, offering students hands-on training, internships, and professional certifications with a focus on urban and environmental applications.