Skills development authority the Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority (EWSETA) has recognised 477 learners, educators, coordinators and provincial representatives across six national categories for their creativity, leadership and innovation in water education.

At the 2025 Water and Sanitation Education Programme National Awards, 26 tablets were awarded to winners across all categories, as part of EWSETA’s commitment to digital access and Fourth Industrial Revolution readiness.

“The future of South Africa’s water sustainability depends on the skills, innovation and determination of our learners. By nurturing this potential, we are securing the nation’s collective future,” said EWSETA corporate services executive manager Candice Moodley.

The initiative empowers learners and educators to stay connected, access digital learning and lead South Africa toward a sustainable water future.

“Safeguarding South Africa’s water future begins with people who are skilled, innovative and ready to lead. EWSETA is at the forefront of this national effort, driving change through education, technology and skills development opportunities.”

The event, which was attended by Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister David Mahlobo, is supported by the Department of Water and Sanitation, Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority and the Water Research Commission.

“Together with EWSETA, these partners are strengthening South Africa’s skills pipeline and building a digitally enabled generation of water leaders who will drive innovation, inclusion and sustainable water management across the country.”

EWSETA continues to strengthen South Africa’s water skills pipeline through the development of new, nationally aligned qualifications that respond directly to sector needs.

These include the water use specialist (NQF 7), borehole pump operator (NQF 4), water and sanitation project facilitator (NQF 5), water control officer (NQF 6), water resource management practitioner (NQF 8) and water conservation practitioner (NQF 4).

These qualifications form part of EWSETA’s commitment to ensuring that training programmes remain relevant, practical and responsive to South Africa’s evolving water challenges from climate change to infrastructure management and sanitation innovation.

Over the past five years, the authority invested more than R1.44-billion into the water sector, supporting over 18 000 learners through skills development programmes, bursaries and research initiatives.

“By empowering young South Africans with knowledge and digital capability, EWSETA is developing a generation of water professionals who will shape a sustainable and inclusive sector for the future.”

EWSETA, one of 21 sector education and training authorities established in South Africa in terms of the Skills Development Act, plays a crucial function in ensuring that the National Skills and Development Strategy is executed within the energy and water sectors.