CPUT together with the University of the Western Cape (UWC) will drive water research in the province.
The universities recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the Breede-Overberg Catchment Management Agency (BOCMA), which will see them collaborate on various water-related research projects.
This project is one of the most notable water research ventures to be undertaken in the Western Cape and has received support from Nuffic, a Netherlands-based organisation that supports international cooperation in higher education and research.
CPUT’s Prof Alvin Lagardien, who heads up the Centre of Water Research, says the agreement will drive collaboration in the areas of catchment studies, sanitation, water reuse technologies, water conservation and demand management.
The agreement will also see the institutions conduct water resource assessments and projects on water sustainability.
Chief Executive Officer of BOCMA, Phakamani Buthelezi, says they are pleased to team up with universities, who have the expertise to assist communities with the various challenges they are facing, such as water pollution.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research, Technology Innovation and Partnerships, Dr Chris Nhlapo, says universities must undertake research that can have a positive impact on communities. He urged that the research results be taken up and implemented by the parties involved.
Meanwhile, the Dean of Science at UWC, Prof Davies-Coleman says water research in South Africa is now in its third phase.
He says the focus has moved from how to contain water and conserve it, to how to care for water.
“I am so excited about this achievement because it shows that we are taking water seriously."
By Candes Keating
Written by CPUT News
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