In Armenia, the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine, universities and public authorities are working together to modernise water education and ensure that future professionals have the skills needed to address growing water challenges. Supported by the European Union through the EU4Green Recovery East programme, the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) facilitated a series of national discussions aimed at reviewing university curricula, strengthening cooperation between academia and public institutions, and aligning education with the needs of the water sector.
Ukraine: reshaping water curricula for reconstruction
On 12 March, a roundtable discussion brought together 40 representatives from universities, government and water sector organisations
Participants agreed that existing university syllabuses must tackle global climate and environmental challenges, emerging issues and integration with the EU policy. Participants also highlighted the importance of complementing technical expertise with interdisciplinary approaches to understand the social dimension of water governance, soft skills, and digitalization.
Read the meeting documentation. Read the report (Ukrainian)
Moldova: strengthening water education
On 13 May, the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Moldova hosted a roundtable bringing together representatives from the Moldovan universities.
It was agreed to advocate for the maintaining existing university programmes related to water management and identifying ways to better support professionals working in the sector, helping to ensure that the country continues to develop the expertise needed for effective water governance.
Read the meeting minutes.
Armenia: reviewing curricula for integrated water management
In Armenia, discussions on water education were held on 14 May and 12 June with the Ministry of Environment, the Water Committee and representatives from more than 10 universities. An in-depth review of water-related programmes in 12 Armenian universities found that engineering education is already delivered to a high standard, while identifying opportunities to strengthen interdisciplinary teaching, integrate the principles of integrated water resources management and improve understanding of legal and policy frameworks. The analysis provides recommendations that will guide future curriculum development and help prepare graduates for the evolving needs of the water sector.
Read the report.
By supporting the modernisation of higher education and strengthening links between universities and public institutions, the EU4Green Recovery East programme is helping Armenia, the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine build the expertise needed for more resilient and sustainable water management systems.
