Sixth Edition of Water Research Community Begins in Manchester

The sixth edition of the Water Research Community began in Manchester, the United Kingdom, in collaboration with the University of Manchester, with high-level participation from representatives of Saudi and international universities, as well as leading researchers, experts, and decision-makers. The event was organized by the Water Technologies Innovation Institute and Research Advancements (WTIIRA), the innovation arm of the Saudi Water Authority (SWA).

 The community forms part of ongoing efforts to address growing challenges in the water sector by promoting applied scientific research and accelerating the transformation of research outcomes into sustainable technological solutions that enhance water-supply efficiency and support resource sustainability.

 The opening ceremony, attended by SWA President Eng. Abdullah Al-Abdulkarim, featured presentations on global trends in water research and innovation strategies. It also showcased promising technologies and successful international models, and introduced the Global Prize for Innovation in Water (GPIW), aimed at fostering a culture of innovation and encouraging researchers to develop solutions with tangible impact.

 Through meetings, dialogue sessions, and roundtables, participants discussed opportunities for international cooperation, knowledge transfer, and the development of emerging technologies in partnership with research institutions and global companies. These exchanges help build an effective research ecosystem that supports researchers and enables the sector to adopt practical, innovative solutions.

 The organization of the community reflects SWA’s commitment to strengthening international collaboration and linking scientific research with the real needs of the water sector, helping to generate measurable impact and shape the future of water sustainability at both regional and global levels.