Workshop programme_Gender perspectives of bridging the inter-generational gap in the water sector

Bridge-builders: Gender perspectives of bridging the inter-generational gap in the water sector Collaborative workshop with the Young Water Professionals and the Water Youth Network during the Gender, Water and Development conference.

5th November 2014 Time: 14h00-16h00 Venue: International Conference Centre, East London, South Africa

Young people have a key role to play in addressing current and future water challenges whilst working hand in hand with senior water practitioners.

The Young Water Professionals (YWP) and Water Youth Network (WYN) would like to facilitate discussions about the inter-generational gap in the water sector. This is a significant challenge both internationally and nationally, as those involved in development strategies tend to be more established role players, with many years of experience.

As “we cannot solve our problems with the same thinking that created our problems” it is vital that we meaningfully engage the next generation in global problem solving. Bridging this gap is a means of ensuring that younger generations of both genders are a part of the process of designing and shaping the future they inherit.

Workshop Facilitators: Dr Inga Jacobs (Past YWP chair) and Louise Bryson (YWP-EC)

Bridge-builders: Gender perspectives of bridging the inter-generational gap in the water sector 14:00–14:10

Overview of the inter-generational gap in the water sector Workshop Facilitator: Welcome and short Dr Inga Jacobs (Past YWP chair) introduction Scene-Setting

14:10–14:30

The role of women and men as bridge-builders in addressing the inter-generational gap Overcoming inter-generational challenges in the water sector workplace with a gender perspective

14:30–15:00

Ms Eiman Karar (Water Research Commission)

Who really builds bridges: examples of gendered dimensions in the water sector and how they can be tackled through inter-generational cooperation Gender challenges in water supply and sanitation

Paul Msoma & Sakhile Khaweka (WaterAid)

Gender challenges in IWRM

Moa Cortobius (Programme Officer and Research Assistant for the UNDP Water Governance Facility (SIWI))

15:00 – 15:15

Q&A

15:15–15:45

The role of the youth as bridge-builders SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION ON THE ROLE OF THE YOUTH AS BRIDGE-BUILDERS

15:45–16:00

Ms Louise Bryson (YWP-EC)

Feedback in plenary and closing

Discussion groups

The Young Water Professionals (YWP) programme offers practical and effective ways for those interested in a career in the water sector to follow their interests and experiences. It is an international initiative spear-headed by the International Water Association (IWA).

In South Africa the YWP is in partnership with the Water Institute of South Africa (WISA). WISA is a volunteer organization representing the professional water industry in Southern Africa.

YWP-ZA: www.sa-ywp.org.za YWP-Eastern Cape: YWP.ECape@gmail.com The Water Youth Network (WYN) is a global network which aims to encourage diverse and meaningful participation to help solve issues related to water. The WYN aspires to grow a network beyond institutional, disciplinary and country borders, striving to bring individuals and organizations together to address the global water crisis together. We hope that ongoing collaboration through the WYN results in solutions that are always building on previous efforts and commitments.

WYN: www.wateryouthnetwork.org

Question 1: What is the role of the youth as bridge-builders in the water and sanitation sector?

Discussion Questions

Question 2: What are the challenges faced in this regard?

Question 3: What are the tools and the enabling environment to help bridge this gap?