In the 21st century, water is becoming a critical issue around the world. In evolving economies and policy decisions, water has not been explored in its multi-faceted and multi-disciplinary complexities. Centre for Public Affairs and Critical Theory at Shiv Nadar University has launched a first of its kind master’s programme in Water Science and Policy. It aims to create a critical mass of water professionals, with a multi-disciplinary perspective and good understanding of water, who can help carry forward India’s ongoing paradigm shift in water management. There are only a few programmes around the world that look into the essential multi-disciplinary character of water. And even these fail to address the urgent policy requirements of the sector. This highly innovative programme seeks to fill this gap by providing a comprehensive understanding of the water sector. Taught by experts on water and its various issues, the faculties range from humanities, sciences, civil societies and engineering fields.
The program has been built on a modular structure, flexible enough to allow stakeholders from the government, civil society, industry and others to opt for selective courses within the programme, leading to the award of certificates and diplomas. There are several options in terms of topics and duration – truly an opportunity for a diverse range of stakeholders in the water sector. The programme also has a PG dissertation which all students need to complete. The dissertation is designed as a field-based project, where the students have to address critical issues surrounding water in local areas under designated field partners.
After a recent high-level review, Amitabh Kant, CEO, NITI Aayog remarked that Shiv Nadar University “will create history through this program”. Dr. Amarjit Singh, Secretary, Water Resources, Government of India felt that this unique programme, which combines theoretical and field level practical learning, is a timely and necessary knowledge engagement to build a cadre of water professionals who will be able to guide in the development of sustainable and new-age policies, programmes and solutions to India’s growing water crisis. Shri Parameswaran Iyer, Secretary, Drinking Water and Sanitation, Government of India described this as a “world-class program”.
Applicants could be undergraduates; pursuing BA, B.Sc., B. Tech; or mid-career students from government, civil society, industry, social movements or organizations from India and abroad. The duration of the programme is of two years and students have the option to choose shorter diplomas and certificates in the same discipline due to its modular design. The programme will open opportunities in the government, academia, the corporate sector, national and international development agencies and leading civil society organizations. For further information, please click here.
