Inauguration of the UNESCO Chair in Non-conventional Water Resources at Red Sea University, Sudan

At a time when water scarcity continues to shape livelihoods across the country, the launch of the chair signals more than an academic achievement; it represents a collective commitment to practical solutions, innovation, and long-term resilience.

The ceremony brought together over 120 participants, including government officials, diplomats, UN representatives, water experts, and development partners. Among the distinguished attendees were H.E. Mr Fathallah Al-Haj, representing the Governor of Red Sea State; Prof. Abdelgadir Badwai, Vice Chancellor of Red Sea University; Mr Abdelgadir Salih, Head of the Sciences Unit at the UNESCO Sudan Office; and Prof. Mustafa Sir-Elkhatim, Director of the newly established Chair.

Launched in alignment with the spirit of World Water Day and its theme "The More Water Flows, the More Equality Grows", the initiative underscores the direct link between water access and social equity. In this context, the establishment of the Chair reflects a shared vision: that sustainable water solutions are fundamental to stability, dignity, and inclusive development.

A key highlight of the event was the signing of cooperation agreements between the UNESCO Chair, the Red Sea State Water Authority, and the Sudan Ports Authority-an important step toward strengthening coordinated water management efforts across sectors.

Participants also engaged with an interactive exhibition showcasing desalination technologies, advanced laboratory equipment, and cutting-edge research in water resources. This was followed by a technical workshop bringing together experts to explore pressing issues such as desalination for water security, water harvesting systems, and the realities of water scarcity in the Red Sea State.

Established with UNESCO's approval in December 2025, the Chair builds on Sudan's growing engagement with UNESCO's global water network, complementing existing institutions such as the Regional UNESCO Category II Centre for Water Harvesting and the UNESCO Chair at Omdurman Islamic University.

By advancing research, strengthening capacities, and fostering collaboration among national and international partners, the new chair is set to become a hub for innovation and knowledge exchange, driving sustainable solutions to water scarcity in Sudan and across the Arab and African regions.

As momentum builds, this initiative stands as a powerful reminder: investing in water is not only about resources; it is about securing futures.