Innovation of Geological Information Systems in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Project name: | Innovation of Geological Information Systems in Bosnia and Herzegovina |
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Project duration: | 01/2023–12/2027 |
Project implementer: | Czech Geological Survey (CGS) |
Project partners: | Geological Survey of Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FZZG), Geological Survey of Republic of Srpska (RZZGI) |
Funding resource: | Czech Development Agency (CzDA) |
History
This project proposal was compiled based on the concept submitted in 2020 to the Czech Development Agency (CzDA) by the Geological Survey of Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FZZG) and the Geological Survey of Republic of Srpska (RZZGI). Both organizations emphasized the need for better management and dissemination of subsurface data to support spatial planning and decision-making, as well as, for example future research of renewable energy potential. The technical infrastructure and knowledge in both organizations is currently not up to the level that would allow this.
Project intention
The project intents to contribute to developing sustainable management and access to geological data and knowledge of the two geological surveys in Bosnia and Herzegovina, in line with the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, specifically Goal 7 (affordable and clean energy), Goal 13 (climate action – sustainable management of natural resources) and Goal 16 (peace, justice and strong institutions - contribute to the establishment of effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels).
Project aim
The main aims are to support the public institutions in improving the geological information system, to increase professional competence of local experts and governmental staff and to improve data management, as well as access, presentation and dissemination of data and information. The project is based on the assumption that the technological and organizational design of the information system, which will be prepared by ČGS based on their expertise and experience, will be handed over to FZZG and RZZGI for implementation and further operation.
Project outcome
The outcome of the project is to improve the access to geological information in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Achievement of this outcome can be monitored through following indicators:
- Proposal of the system, including recommendations for its implementation, operation, monitoring and periodic inspection is documented
- Trainings provided to increase the professional competence of local experts and state administration staff
- Improved access to data using the provided technology and knowledge
Project structure and content
The proposal compiled by Czech Geological Survey (CGS) is based on information obtained during communication with both local Geological Surveys and the knowledge and experience of the CGS.
Coordination of work, meetings and working groups
Organizing the working groups and monitoring the progress of work in accordance with the project schedule, organizing regular meetings at all management levels, organization and supervision of compilation of reports and deliverables.
Output 1: Design of technical infrastructure and related procedures
Based on the inventory, technical infrastructure and related procedures will be designed. This includes a design of strategy for archive, data and metadata management.
Output 2: Innovation of information systems
Necessary technologies will be supplied, and implementation of the proposed system will be supported. Local staff will be trained in the specific technology.
Output 3: Enhancing the ability of Bosnian stakeholders to use geological data
Presentations and popularization of results will improve the ability of local stakeholders, representatives of authorities and public to use geological data. Professional workshops focused on the transfer of acquired know-how within the geological topics will be led by CGS experts. Cooperation with relevant local universities will be deepened.

Project progress
January–June 2023
This phase was a direct follow-up to the previous preparatory phase. An important part of the work consisted of coordination activities, planning of individual stages of work and administrative activities.
The professional capacities were mainly focused on inventory of the existing situation. The results of sub-activities Inventory of data sources and Inventory of existing HW, SW, procedures used and staff knowledge are summarised in the annexes to the mid-term report. The information from the questionnaire surveys was processed and the situation at both Sarajevo and Zvornik sites was completed and verified.
On the basis of the ongoing analysis of the information obtained, parts of the design of the upgraded information system are gradually being prepared. Proposals for metadata processing strategy, work with archives, data management are being developed. The design of the technical infrastructure aims to prepare the technical basis for the planned tenders.
Following the preparation of the technological proposal, a plan and timetable for technical certified courses is being developed. A communication plan with Bosnian universities is being prepared.
Photogallery
July–December 2023
Work on the project is documented through ongoing updates on the CGS website:
- Kick-off meeting of the project Innovation of Geological Information Systems in Bosnia and Herzegovina (September 4–6, 2023)
- Working meeting of the Czechia-Bosnia development aid project (November 20–21, 2023)
Photogallery
January–June 2024
Work on the project is documented through ongoing updates on the CGS website:
Photogallery
July–December 2024
Work on the project is documented through ongoing updates on the CGS website:
- Presentation event of the project Innovation of Geological Information Systems in Bosnia and Herzegovina (September 10–12, 2024)
- CGS strengthens geological education and cooperation in Bosnia and Herzegovina (November 5–7, 2024)
- Implementation mission in Zvornik completes installation of new IT infrastructure (November 13–14, 2024)
- Czech Geological Survey helps with data management of geological services in Bosnia and Herzegovina (December 10–12, 2024)
Presentation meeting in Mostar, September 2024
January–June 2025
Práce na projektu jsou dokumentovány prostřednictvím průběžných aktualit na webu ČGS:
- The first issue of the newsletter of the project Innovation of Geological Information Systems in Bosnia and Herzegovina was published (January 13, 2025)
- The implementation mission in Sarajevo (January 14–15, 2025)
- Training for employees of the geological surveys of Bosnia and Herzegovina (April 2–4, 2025)
- Geological Survey of Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina on Facebook
Photogallery
July–December 2025
Work on the project is documented through ongoing updates on the CGS website:
- CGS working mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina: support for the modernization of geological systems (June 3–5, 2025)
- Student from the Faculty of Mining in Prijedor on professional practice at the Geological Institute (19. 5. 2025)
- Stručna praksa u Federalnom zavodu za geologiju/Professional internship at the Federal Geological Institute (July 21–August 1, 2025)