Water is a crucial resource for both human well-being and ecosystem functioning, yet water scarcity, poor water quality, and inadequate sanitation are significant global challenges. SDG 6 aims to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. Technology-based social cooperation has the potential to address these water-related challenges by providing innovative solutions, such as affordable water harvesting, sanitization, and distribution technologies, as well as knowledge sharing and mentorship. Scientists play a crucial role in solving the water and sanitation crisis, but more can be done to improve cooperation between research institutions and NGOs for social impact.

This panel discussion is open to the entire KAUST community and will feature a group of KAUST faculty, students, and invited guests working in NGOs operating in low and middle-income countries. The discussion will focus on how researchers can get involved with social impact organizations, what priorities exist on-site, and how to effectively adapt and implement new technologies for water management in areas with particular socio-economic contexts.

Panel Composition:

• 2 Student Moderators (Students for Sustainability)
• Peiying Hong( Associate Professor, WDRC, KAUST)
• Gyorgy Szekely (Assistant Professor, AMPM, KAUST)
• Evan Wesley (Guest, Vice President of Student Activation at NGO Thirst Project)
• Joy Egbe (Guest, Co-Founder & Chief Impact Officer at NGO Newdigit & United Nations Academic Impact Fellow)