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GIS DAY 2004.pdf Ministry Paper.pdf GIS Day 2003.pdf GIS Day 2002 Review GIS Journal / Kingston GIS Journal / Montego Bay

Welcome to the Geographic Information Systems in Schools Education Programme [GISSEP] website. It is our hope that you will make use of the resources that are available for the development & deployment of GIS within the school enviroment.The GISSEP website is mainly supported by the COMMUNITY page found on the navigation bar to the left.

BACKGROUND

A Geographical Information System (GIS) is a computer technology that combines geographic data (The locations of man-made) and natural features on the earth's surface)and other types of information (names, classifications, addresses, and much more) to generate visual maps and reports." Olooney 2000.

In recognition of the fact that the GIS Technology needs to become a part of the Jamaican Educational System, the Ministry of Land and Environment (MLE) discussed with the Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI), the world's leading GIS software provider, the possibilities of incorporating GIS in schools.

In September 2001, an Inaugral Urban and Regional Information Systems Association (URISA) Conference was held in Montego Bay. At this conference the President of ESRI, Mr. Jack Dangermond, announced the donation of US $1million in GIS Software and training material to the Government of Jamaica to assist with the GIS in Schools Education Programme (GISSEP).

With the the assistance, the MLE and Ministry of Education, Youth & Culture (MOEYC) are now spearheading a multi-million dollar programme to have students of primary and secondary institutions trained and Educated in GIS and the use of related software. GISSEP was launched in February 2002.

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Careers Many organizations in different industries are looking for individuals with formal & certified training along with practical experience with GIS.	Software Review ESRI's geographic information system (GIS) software serves the needs of organizations ranging from small businesses, schools to global enterprises.
Technical Support Technical support provided to GISSEP students and GIS personnel islandwide.	Training Schedule A listing of available dates for training.
Books A listing of periodicals, books recommended by the GIS personnel.	Recommended Sites A listing of recommended sites to assist in the development of GIS islandwide.
Articles A daily dose of news available by leading GIS personnel worldwide.	Goverment/Departmental Links All available GIS Agencies, Government and departmental links available in Jamaica.
Scholarships/Certifications GISSEP displays a listing of scholarships and programmes available to assist in formal training in GIS and related areas of studies.	Events GISSEP gives details of tradeshows each year and offers seminars, user group meetings, and numerous other events around Jamaica.