Young Water Professionals Tackle Pressing Water Challenges in Vietnam with Australian Water Partnership and the Vietnamese Ministries
Tackling water challenges in Vietnam: building the capability of the next generation of industry leaders through collaboration and inclusivity.
Isle Utilities spearheaded an influential sprint challenge aimed at the next generation of water industry leaders in Vietnam. The project focused on finding innovative answers to some of Vietnam’s most pressing water challenges. The central goal was for YWPs to build knowledge, capability and relationships in an exciting, memorable, and innovative way. It also aimed to tackle water challenges through the lens of gender equality, disability and social inclusion (GEDSI).
Thirty YWPs from diverse backgrounds participated in the event, along with a lineup of local and international experts. Over the course of two days participants addressed urgent water challenges in some of the most sensitive areas of Vietnam. Using design-led thinking, the YWPs developed solutions for the Mekong Delta regions, Northern Uplands, and Islands of Vietnam.
Challenges in these areas are particularly acute due to water scarcity and access challenges. Three solutions were developed and tested, which can be further explored by partners in 2024.
This project was supported by, and was a collaborative effort from:
- Australian Water Partnership (AWP)
- Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)
- Department of Water Resources Management (DWRM)
- Other ministries under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE)
Benefits of Approach/Innovation
- Capability building: The event focused on up-skilling and capability building among YWPs, giving them an understanding of the challenges Vietnam faces. Participants focused on climate change, water scarcity while considering the benefits of GEDSI in solving these challenges.
- Problem solving: Participants and partners were led through a design-led problem solving approach, focusing on pressing water challenges.
- Network creation: Foundations were laid to build a YWP network under our partners DWRM and MONRE. This positioning enables YWPs to play a crucial role in sustainable development, helping to resolve Vietnam’s water resource challenges.
Specialist Services Involved:
- Design-led coaching: Our team trained in-country partners and participants in human-centered design and sprint methodologies.
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Sprint facilitation: We guided and trained facilitators on three concurrent sprints, each involving 10 participants and focusing on different topics. These addressed GEDSI, water security and climate change in different regions of Vietnam.
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Project design and management: Our team managed project delivery in collaboration with the Australian Water Partnership, DWRM and in-country partners. We managed design, service procurement and event delivery.
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Horizon scanning: We conducted a review of technologies most relevant to the sprint challenge topics.
Outcomes:
- Prototype development: Over the course of two days, participants addressed urgent water-related challenges. They focused on specific case studies in Vietnam where water issues are particularly acute. Three solutions were developed and tested which can be further explored by DWRM and AWP partners.
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Skilled YWP Network: DWRM now has a cohort of 30 YWPs with problem-solving skills and sound knowledge of Vietnam’s water challenges. This is the first and most important step of building a YWP network. YWPs also possess a solid understanding of the importance of GEDSI in addressing water challenges.
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Diplomatic collaboration: AWP viewed the event as a success, reinforcing the already strong diplomatic connections in place.
Key Contacts:
For enquiries and further information, please contact Dr Dr. Alex Cech, Head of Change and Implementation at Isle Utilities.