WIS2 Training
Introduction
The WIS 2.0 Capacity Development Program is designed to support WMO Members, particularly Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Small Island Developing States (SIDS), and other developing nations, in the adoption and implementation of WIS 2.0 for real-time data sharing.
A central component of this effort is wis2box, an open-source, low-barrier, and cloud-ready software solution tailored to meet the diverse operational needs of WMO Members.
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Training program
The WIS2 training program empowers NMHS staff with vital digital skills through a carefully structured approach. Through intensive five-day workshops, participants gain hands-on experience with cloud computing, Internet of Things (IoT) protocols, Web APIs, and real-time data exchange. Participants learn how to setup a WIS2 Node using the wis2box-software and learn how to publish data notifications and download data published by other Nodes in the network. The training covers essential operational tasks such as monitoring the frequency and quality of the data content being published, troubleshooting issues with data conversion and how to secure the operational environment.
During training sessions, each participant accesses a virtual machine to setup their own WIS2 Node within the local training network. This provides a safe and isolated learning environment in which to gain practical experience working with MQTT and the WIS2 standards.
The picture below shows the "portable cloud" system, consisting of 3 mini-PC and one WiFi router. The mini-PCs run ProxMox virtualization software to provide up 30 virtual machines accessible over the local WiFi :
Practical exercise material is published on the wis2box training website, to enable self-learning outside of training sessions.
Driving Digital Transformation and Community Building
The skills taught in the training program extend beyond WIS 2.0, driving broader technological advancement within NMHSs. Participants learn to work with cloud-ready services, manage containerized applications, and implement automated data exchange systems. This cultural shift is especially significant for organizations that have traditionally relied on manual processes and legacy systems.
The program demonstrates how targeted training, combined with open-source tools, can accelerate digital transformation. Many participating NMHSs have moved from manual data handling to automated, cloud-based solutions, significantly improving their operational capabilities.
WIS2 Training Sessions are organized by region to bring neighboring countries together to build a regional community of support, leading to more efficient knowledge sharing and problem-solving. The regional alignment has sparked innovative solutions, including shared WIS 2.0 nodes where multiple countries collaborate on infrastructure and operations.
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Collaboration with external partners
The success of these training activities has been made possible through the strong support and collaboration of key partners. Canada is playing a particularly important role, through the contributions of their technical expert Tom Kralidis, who served as a one of the trainers during the workshops.
Global Information System Centres (GISCs) support the WIS2 Training by delivering training content, sharing their operational expertise, and providing practical guidance based on real-world experience. GISC's combined efforts ensure that the capacity development activities are both relevant and effective for WMO Members.
Training Status Overview
The following WIS2 Training Sessions have been held or are planned for the near future. The language used during the training is adapted to the region, to ensure that technical concepts are clearly understood and that participants can fully engage in hands-on exercises.
Number of Members indicates the number of WMO Member countries/territories invited to a session.
Number of Participants indicates the total participants that attended the session (for Training Status=Done).
List of Training Sessions and Invited Members
The full list of WMO Members invited to WIS2 Trainings can be found in the following table (scroll to see full list):
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(Update on: 28-07-2025)