Transforming Academia - Embracing Digital Water Education in Africa

ongoing

DIGITWATER seeks to enhance the quality of higher education and research in water management through the use and promotion of innovative digital technologies. The project focuses on developing educational tools that promote collaboration and knowledge sharing among partner institutions (including students and academics), as well as the private and public sectors with a particular emphasis on the Sub-Saharan region. Key components of the project include upgrading the e-learning platform developed in our previous CBHE project, establishing technology labs, offering practical training, jointly supervising MSc theses, and developing e-learning modules (MOOCs) in water resources engineering. The project promotes interdisciplinary open water education, fostering South-South and North-South collaboration and co-development of MSc courses. It also engages stakeholders and citizens in education through an Integrated Project (IP) approach and local workshops on the Internet of Things. The IP will involve students tackling real-world water challenges, with each participating NAPC HEI developing a case study. Additionally, the project aims to raise awareness of the gender aspects of water use and management, ensuring gender equality in access to education, and strengthening connections between the private and public sectors with MSc programs in partner universities. In summary, DIGITWATER aims to amplify the impact of digital technologies and educational tools in water management, while promoting access to high-quality education and research. The project will also establish new academic and research networks in water resources across partner countries, support student mobility, and foster partnerships with key stakeholders in the water sector.