Sanaa:A training course aimed at enhancing the capacities of water and sanitation institutions in rainwater harvesting has commenced at Sanaa University. The course is organized by the University's Water and Environment Center in collaboration with the Social Fund for Development, the Comprehensive Development Research Center, and the International Institute for Hydraulic Studies.
According to Yemen News Agency, the three-day course is designed to improve the skills of engineers and technicians in the design and implementation of rainwater harvesting projects at both urban and rural levels. It also focuses on integrated water planning and managing non-traditional resources.
Deputy Minister of Electricity, Energy and Water, Engineer Adel Bader, highlighted that the course aligns with the government's strategy to strengthen the water sector through a "sustainable rainwater harvesting" system. He emphasized the strategic importance of harvesting and storage solutions amid water scarcity and advocated for learning from international practices, integrating modern technologies, and rationalizing agricultural water use.
Sanaa University President, Dr. Mohammed Al-Bukhaiti, underscored the need to blend scientific knowledge with practical application and adapt successful experiences to local geographic and climatic conditions. He praised the Water and Environment Center's efforts and expressed the University's commitment to implementing high-quality training programs without reliance on external funding.
Dr. Taha Al-Washli, Director of the Water and Environment Center, cited challenges such as well depletion, population growth, and energy costs. He emphasized the humanitarian and religious significance of water services and called for increased efforts to solve energy issues with solar solutions and improve collection efficiency. Ahmed Ghamdan, Head of the Water Unit at the Social Fund for Development, shared the Fund's 30 years of experience in rainwater harvesting, achieving approximately 20 million cubic meters of storage capacity to support groundwater replenishment.
