University of Zimbabwe and IWSD Advance City Wide Inclusive Sanitation and Future Ready WASH Education
The University of Zimbabwe (UZ), in collaboration with the Institute of Water and Sanitation Development (IWSD), convened a two day workshop aimed at strengthening sanitation practice and enhancing capacity development within Zimbabwe and the wider region.
The workshop brought together representatives from academia, local authorities, utilities, government institutions, development partners, regulators, researchers and WASH practitioners to explore emerging approaches to sanitation service delivery and review academic programmes in sanitation and wastewater management.
The first day focused on a Training of Trainers programme on City Wide Inclusive Sanitation (CWIS), a public service approach that promotes equitable, safe and sustainable sanitation services for all urban residents through both sewered and non-sewered sanitation systems. Participants examined the principles and components of CWIS, implementation challenges, and emerging innovations that can strengthen sanitation service delivery. Discussions also explored the role of climate resilience, digital technologies, artificial intelligence, GIS, remote sensing and nature based solutions in addressing contemporary sanitation challenges.
Through technical presentations, facilitated discussions and case studies, participants gained practical insights into applying CWIS approaches within local authorities and utilities while promoting inclusive and sustainable urban sanitation systems.
The second day focused on reviewing the MSc Sanitation and Wastewater Management programme offered by the University of Zimbabwe alongside Diploma and Certificate programmes offered by IWSD. The review sought to ensure that academic and professional training programmes remain relevant, industry-responsive and aligned with evolving sector needs.
Key discussions examined emerging challenges facing the WASH sector, opportunities for integrating climate adaptation and digital transformation into curricula, and strategies for strengthening pathways between professional certificates, diplomas and postgraduate studies.
Participants also provided recommendations on programme content, professional competencies, industry requirements and future areas of specialization to better prepare sanitation professionals for rapidly changing operating environments.
The workshop reflects the continued commitment of UZ, IWSD and partners to strengthening human capacity, advancing City-Wide Inclusive Sanitation, and developing the next generation of professionals capable of addressing complex sanitation and wastewater management challenges across Africa.
By bringing together practitioners, educators and sector leaders, the initiative contributes to building resilient, inclusive and future oriented WASH systems that support sustainable development and improved public health outcomes.