Google is assembling 90 students from 12 countries to participate in a 2-week conference through its initiative the Google Student Ambassador programme (GSA), to map out Africa’s campuses and the surrounding communities.
This activity, which is expected to create thousands of edits on Google Maps, should make it easier moving around campuses, the company says.
The chosen students will benefit from skills developed by using the mapping tools offered by Google Maps.
“We can hardly imagine what’s in store as the GSA program expands into new regions and new universities. We hope that bringing these outstanding students together will help them learn more about mapping and its benefits and they can lead in putting their universities on the world’s map,” said Obum Ekeke, Regional Program Manager – University Programs and Outreach, Google Sub-Saharan Africa.
The mapping will include administrative blocks, cafeterias, accommodation and dining buildings, libraries, laboratories, banks and other useful places. It is unclear if indoor mapping will also be included in the project.
Over 1800 students have been trained to undertake the project. The students have received further training in Google Map Maker and the benefits of easily locating facilities around them.
According to Google, this programme helps students in various universities to make “the Internet relevant to them in their society.”
The Google Student Ambassador programme was started in 2011 with 28 students from six African countries being selected. It has grown further with more institutions and countries being included in the programme.
