On Wednesday, 6 March 2024, the South African Risk and Vulnerability Atlas (SARVA) team hosted a Data Analysis Workshop at Walter Sisulu University (WSU), with the presence of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) climate services. This workshop was the first in a series of workshops planned to take place at different Risk and Vulnerability Science Centres (RVSCs) across South Africa. With 27 participants in attendance, ranging from eager students to seasoned researchers and supervisors, it was more than just a workshop, it was a collaborative journey, marking the beginning of a partnership with the WSU RVSC.

The day kicked off with informative presentations, which provided insights into the practical applications and paved the way for engagements on potential collaboration opportunities among the stakeholders present. Notably, the DFFE shared a presentation on the National Risk and Vulnerability Framework, while the RVSC highlighted their work and community initiatives, contributing significantly to the workshop’s discussions. These were followed by hands-on tutorials, guided by the SARVA team, which allowed participants to explore the software and perform basic data analysis to extract insights. This interactive session allowed participants to explore Python APIs and Google Earth Engine. The enthusiastic and eager participants created an environment conducive to learning and exploration. Therefore a highlight of the day was the exploration of Python APIs and Google Earth Engine, showcasing the potential for advanced data management and spatial analysis.

As the day drew to a close, it was evident that the workshop was not just about acquiring technical skills, it was about forging a partnership between SARVA and WSU RVSC, which are united by a common goal of advancing global change research.