Geo-intelligence in Action: Luc’s Internship Story at NAXA, Kathmandu
By: Luc Meulenbroek (Netherlands)Master's student: Spatial Systems & Society
My internship at NAXA in Kathmandu has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my studies. I joined this geo-intelligence company because their work goes far beyond data and maps; they partner with communities to tackle real challenges like disaster risk, flooding, and climate resilience.
During my time there, I helped localise risk-scoring tools for the DASTAA platform, built flood models for Barbardiya, and developed the first method for estimating post-flood damage. Seeing these tools used in Nepal and, soon, in Congo and Malawi, made the work feel incredibly real.
Everything I learned at ITC, University of Twente, especially through the Master’s in Spatial Systems & Society, helped me collaborate across cultures and disciplines. Working in Nepal also taught me how to be creative when data is missing, how to listen to local perspectives, and how much I value hands-on, community-focused work.