The Ethiopian Water Technology Institute (EWTI) mission is to realize nationwide rapid development in the water sector through capacity building, research and study for technology transfer, giving specialized laboratory and TVET support and competence services that improve the sector’s overall implementation capacity.
The Institute is focused on technical training, research, and technology transfer activities, primarily targeting mid-level technical professionals and training over 1500 graduates a year, not only from Ethiopia but also from Africa. The basis of EWTI is the undeniable development partner of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the close support and follow up of the Ministry of Water and Energy of Ethiopia.
We need to increase workforce skill levels in order to produce more and better water-related professionals across the nation. This can increase efficiency in some areas while attracting more talent to the water sector professionals.
Here in EWTI, a new demonstration site under the Smart Centre initiative was opened for rural water supply and sanitation technologies, showcasing potential solutions to increase access to water and improve latrines. The site includes technologies for simple communal water schemes such as hand pumps and self-supply, where households invest in improving their own facilities. Rope pumps, solar pumps, and EMAS pumps can all be seen and tested, as well as sanitation solutions like the Sato-pan.
The complex and multidimensional aspects of water security require a more holistic solution. Our journey continues to be challenging and complex in our quest to address water security for Africa. EWTI is growing and improving in many aspects, training operation and management, training delivery, as well as institutional management and administration. There is also a plan to develop a specialized laboratory focused on water pollution risks. With support from Morocco, a new training center for water management and irrigation is also under construction. Both specialized laboratory and water management and irrigation activities will be expected to start and be functional in the coming Ethiopian New Year.
