Ahmedabad : The International Water Association (IWA) and the Center for Water and Sanitation (CWAS) of the CEPT Research and Development Foundation (CRDF) at CEPT University have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing collaboration in water management and sanitation. The signing took place on September 25, 2024, at CEPT University.
The agreement was formalized by Dr. Kalanithy Vairavamoorthy, Executive Director of IWA; Suren Vakil, Vice-Chairperson of CRDF; and Dr. Dinesh Mehta and Dr. Meera Mehta, both Center Heads of CWAS. The ceremony was attended by notable figures including Dr. Barjor Mehta, President of CEPT University; Dr. Shalini Sinha, Dean of the Faculty of Planning; and other key members from IWA and CWAS.
This MoU marks a significant step in reinforcing the partnership between the two organizations, which are dedicated to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6, which emphasizes water and sanitation for all. The CRDF serves as the multidisciplinary research and advisory wing of CEPT, with CWAS actively engaging with various government levels to conduct action-research, provide implementation support, and advocate for effective and equitable water and sanitation services.
The IWA operates as a global network of water professionals committed to promoting sustainable water management and innovative solutions to water-related challenges. This strategic partnership will facilitate joint research, education, innovation, and capacity-building initiatives focused on water, sanitation, hygiene (WASH), climate change, and inclusive development. CWAS and IWA will collaborate on events and technical publications and explore opportunities to involve students in the sector. The CWAS team will also maintain active participation in IWA’s Task Force on Inclusive Urban Sanitation.
The partnership is expected to enhance IWA’s visibility in South Asia while providing CWAS access to global knowledge. It embodies the shared vision of both organizations to promote sustainable water management and advance urban water and sanitation solutions throughout the region.
About CEPT University
CEPT University specializes in understanding, designing, planning, constructing, and managing human habitats. Its academic programs aim to develop thoughtful professionals, while its research initiatives deepen knowledge of human settlements. CEPT also engages in advisory projects to enhance livability in habitats. Comprising six faculties, CEPT University was recognized by the Government of India as a Centre of Excellence in Urban Planning and Design in December 2023, receiving an endowment of ₹250 Crore for research and training in this field over the next 25 years.
Founded in 1962 as the School of Architecture, CEPT University was established under the CEPT University Act of 2005 by the Gujarat government. It is acknowledged as a Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (SIRO) by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) of the Government of India, and is also recognized as a Centre of Excellence by the Government of Gujarat. The university maintains numerous collaborations and exchange programs with top global institutions.
About CEPT Research and Development Foundation (CRDF)
The CEPT Research and Development Foundation (CRDF) serves as the research and advisory arm of CEPT University, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to tackle challenges related to human habitats. Through CRDF, the university engages in various research projects and capacity-building initiatives aimed at enhancing quality of life in urban areas, providing academic expertise to external stakeholders, including government bodies, NGOs, and businesses.
About IWA
The International Water Association (IWA) is a global network dedicated to promoting sustainable water management. Through its initiatives, IWA champions innovative solutions to water challenges, supporting regions in meeting their community needs.
