During the Cairo Water Week 2025 (CWW2025), held in Cairo from October 12 to 16, the session “Empowering the Next Generation: Science-Based Collaboration and Capacity Building in the Nile Basin” brought together experts, researchers, and young professionals from across the Nile riparian countries to explore how science, education, and youth engagement can enhance cooperation in managing shared water resources.
Organized under the Eastern Nile Basin Research Universities & Centers (ENRUC) initiative, the session highlighted the urgent need for education and capacity building as a sustainable way of transboundary science based collaboration in the land and water management sectors. The discussion explored how science can facilitate evidence-based decision-making, promote regional water resilience, and empower young researchers to contribute to lasting solutions.
Keynote speakers, including Prof. Lars Ribbe (TH Köln) and Dr. Malte Großmann (GIZ), emphasized the pivotal role of scientific collaboration and training programs in fostering trust and shared governance among Nile Basin countries. They showcased successful initiatives that link academic research with development practice, particularly those that equip emerging professionals with the skills needed to address water-related challenges under climate and economic pressures.
Young scientists from Sudan, Kenya, and Uganda shared their perspectives on innovation within the water–energy–food nexus, the barriers faced in accessing mentorship and research opportunities, and their ideas for building stronger regional research networks. Interactive exchanges with participants and the audiance, encouraged cross-border dialogue and collective reflection on the path forward.
The session concluded with a set of actionable recommendations. These included expanding educational partnerships between Nile basin universities, developing basin-wide training frameworks, and increasing youth participation in scientific diplomacy and cooperative governance. Participants reaffirmed the importance of sustained investment in education and capacity building to nurture the next generation of water leaders—those who will drive innovative, science-based collaboration for a more resilient and equitable Nile Basin.
