By Bibian Robert | May 26, 2025
I am thrilled to have graduated with a master’s degree in Spatial Data Science from Penn State University. This journey has been incredibly rewarding, and I am proud to have advanced my knowledge and skillset in geospatial sciences. What excites me most about geospatial technologies is their versatility and their role as a powerful platform enabling the intersection of various fields. My thesis explored spatial inequalities in birth registration coverage, a critical challenge in many low- and lower-middle-income countries (LLMICs), including Kenya. This work exemplifies how geospatial technologies can address demographic inequalities that affect access to rights and services, ultimately shaping population health and well-being. I aim to continue advancing my expertise in geospatial sciences, including addressing challenges in public health, climate change, the environment, and beyond.
I celebrated this academic milestone in Kenya with my family and friends, dressed in the official regalia shipped from the US, which was truly special. I look forward to visiting my alma mater in person someday.
I am deeply grateful to the faculty at the World Campus, Department of Geography, College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, and the Department of Statistics, Eberly College of Science. My weekly interactions with the talented team at the Geoinformation and Big Data Lab (GIBD) were especially inspiring. Much gratitude to my thesis adviser, Dr. Li, and to Prof. Emelda Okiro of KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme (KWTRP), Nairobi for her support. I also extend heartfelt thanks to my family, friends, mentors, and colleagues at the Population and Health Impact Surveillance Group (PHISG) – KWTRP. Thank you all for being part of this incredible journey!
