Non-Technical Surveys (NTS) are essential for determining how to allocate limited resources in the land release process. Therefore, it is not only important that these Surveys be of a high quality, but also that more effort be placed into training and equipping NTS teams, coaching their command-structures and verifying and analyzing survey information. Strong communication between the teams conducting the surveys and the staff responsible for analysis and information management is also essential.
This training course will be held at the Training Centre of the Swiss Armed Forces for foreign missions (SWISSINT). The competence center which is especially suited to the practical exercises for NTS and scenario–based training is located in Oberdorf at Stans, Canton of Nidwalden in Switzerland. By enhancing the role of NTS, operational outcomes will improve, along with increased precision in determining how to distribute scarce resources to contaminated areas.
Successful applicants will receive pre-course reading to assist with preparations and are advised that there will be a baseline test and that there will be a final test on the last day. The practical scenario exercises will also be evaluated by observers and feedback provided to participants. Upon successful completion participants will be awarded a certificate, participants who exceed expectations will be awarded a certificate of distinction.
Start date:
11 August 2019 arrival, start on 12 August 2019
End date:
23 August 2019, Flight departures on 24August 2019
The objectives for the training course will be to provide participants with:
• Up-to-date NTS methodologies, techniques and technologies
• A real-life environment with practical exercises, scenarios and role playing to put the methods and techniques to test
• A platform to raise questions and exchange views and good practices on NTS
The course entails both theoretical and practical elements, with a focus on evidence–based approaches to NTS in various contexts and environments. This includes surveys for landmines, cluster munitions and other explosive remnants of war. During the training, participants will acquire both the hard and soft skills required for effective NTS and test new methodologies and technologies,including an unmanned aerial system and tablet applications.
This training course is aimed at mid-level and senior managers looking to expand their knowledge, to learn more about survey and to explore best practices.
The number of participants is limited to 20. Preference will be given to individuals charged with the management and conduct of field–based surveys, or involved in training personnel for NTS. The GICHD will seek to ensure gender and diversity-balanced participation.
The participant shall be endorsed by his/her organisation, self-nominations are not accepted. The course will be conducted in English. Good working knowledge of English is therefore a requirement.
You will be informed about the decision regarding your application within three weeks of the deadline. If you are concerned about receiving your visa in time, we strongly recommend booking a provisional appointment for the visa process at the Swiss embassy well in advance.
The Swiss Government will cover participant expenses for the course, training materials, food and accommodation while in Stans. Travel to Zurich International airport is to be covered by each respective organization. Participants are expected to arrive on 11th of August and depart on 24th August.
Please note that accommodation is arranged at training centre of SWISSINT in Stans.
Liability: The Swiss Armed Forces do not cover health care expenses. All participants are themselves responsible for adequate insurance (health, accident and liability) or need a Governmental guarantee to cover any health care expenses in Switzerland.
Further information concerning facilities, clothing and equipment will be sent to successful candidates after the selection process.
GICHD.org / AP Mine Ban Convention / Mine Action Standards / IMSMA wiki / Collaborative ORDnance data repository / Convention on Cluster Munitions / Gender and Mine Action Programme