The Institute for Research and Innovation (IRI) at Villa College hosted a seminar addressing the pressing challenges of water and marine resource management faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

Held as part of the 3S Water Project in collaboration with the IHE Delft Institute for Water Education, the seminar aimed to advance solutions aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation).

The seminar brought together experts, policymakers, non-governmental organisations, academics, and community leaders to discuss sustainable water and marine resource management.

Delegates from various SIDS participated, enhancing the regional impact of the event and fostering dialogue on shared environmental challenges.

A key feature of the seminar was the presentation of research by three Masters of Public Health (MPH) students from Villa College. Supported by the 3S Water Project Scholarship, their dissertations focused on innovative strategies for integrated water resource management.

These strategies addressed critical issues such as water safety, public health, environmental resilience, and the overall quality of life for small island communities.

Participants engaged in discussions about sustainable water solutions, emphasising the importance of collaboration between academic institutions, policymakers, and stakeholders.

The seminar also served as a platform for networking, facilitating the exchange of ideas and the development of actionable strategies for water and marine resource management.

This initiative highlights the role of academic research in addressing real-world challenges and underscores Villa College’s commitment to global sustainability goals, the College said.