NELGA Advances Dialogue on the Future of Land Administration

On 26 May 2026, the Network of Excellence in Land Governance in Africa, in collaboration with the International Federation of Surveyors (FIG), the Global Land Tool Network (GLTN), and other partners, held a workshop at the FIG Congress in Cape Town. Entitled "Reimagining Land Administration Education: Towards Conceptualising a Core Body of Knowledge", the session brought together educators, researchers, practitioners, and government officials to discuss how land administration can be strengthened as a distinct field of study in higher education.

Professor Eugene Chigbu, NELGA Southern Africa Coordinator emphasised the importance of strengthening land administration as an academic discipline: "Land administration is deeply founded in human history, and it should be supported to become an impactful discipline within academic systems."  

Four peer-reviewed papers illustrated different approaches to strengthening the discipline. They explored topics ranging from recognising land as heritage and identity, to strengthening collaboration between traditional authorities and local government, using podcasting as an accessible tool for capacity development, and advancing sustainable cities and communities through improved land governance.

The workshop reinforced the case for recognising land administration as a distinct academic discipline within higher education. Participants highlighted the importance of developing dedicated curricula, teaching approaches and institutional support rather than treating it solely as a component of other fields.

The workshop also reflects the support provided through GIZ's Strengthening Advisory Capacities for Land Governance in Africa (SLGA) programme, which strengthens NELGA by supporting curriculum development, capacity building for universities and academics, and collaboration across African higher education institutions to ensure land governance education responds to emerging challenges.