1. Future Water Institute

The Future Water Institute at UCT is dedicated to interdisciplinary research and education aimed at addressing water scarcity and sustainability challenges.

The Institute offers:

• Short Courses and Workshops: Focused on practical water management skills and strategies. Professional workshops cover topics such as water governance, climate adaptation for water infrastructure, and sustainable catchment management.
• Capacity building for municipalities and NGOs: Offering practical skills for water monitoring, planning, and policy implementation.
• Postgraduate Research Opportunities: For students pursuing Master's and PhD degrees in water-related fields. In 2024, this included a call for applications: postgraduate scholarships – UCT Campus Sustainability (Khusela-Ikamva) Work package: Sustainable Water Management. Fully/partially funded Master’s student positions available (term to June 2026) focused on water-sensitive campus design, alternative water sources for flushing, and community-based research on water reuse.This postgraduate research opportunity (Master’s) in water management links innovative research (campus water reuse, alternative water sources) with real-world application and community engagement
• Collaborative Projects: Engaging with local and international partners on water sustainability initiatives. This included “Building an Environmentally Sustainable Campus – together” — 31 October 2024, hosted by UCT’s Future Water Institute and the ACDI. This event included walking tours, installations (e.g., urine-to-fertiliser display) and engagement with students, staff and campus community on water-use behaviours and infrastructure.

2. Department of Environmental and Geographical Science

Programmes: This department offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees with a focus on environmental management, which includes water resources.

• Bachelor of Environmental and Geographical Science (BEGS): Provides foundational knowledge in environmental science, including water systems.
• Honours and Master's Degrees: Specialisations in environmental management, policy, and planning, with opportunities to focus on water-related topics.

3. Department of Civil Engineering

Programmes: The Civil Engineering department offers courses related to water resources and infrastructure.

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSc Eng): Includes modules on fluid mechanics, hydrology, and water treatment.
• Master's and PhD Degrees: Advanced studies in water engineering, including topics like hydraulic design and water systems management.

4. Short courses and workshops

 UCT frequently offers short courses and workshops aimed at professionals in the water sector.

• Topics Covered: Water governance, sustainable water management practices, and climate change adaptation.
• Target Audience: Government officials, NGOs, and industry professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in water management.

5. Community engagement and public learning

UCT actively involves students and communities in water awareness and education projects.

2024 opportunities:

• Water conservation campaigns, school outreach programmes, and public seminars.
• Collaborative projects with municipalities, NGOs, and local schools to improve water access and literacy.

Specific examples from 2024