Conference on water challenges and innovations commences

Islamabad : The 9th International Water Conference 2025, conducting from May 6-7, 2025, in Islamabad, is set to be one of the most significant academic and policy events of the year, bringing together researchers, practitioners, and policymakers from across Pakistan and beyond.

The conference is jointly organized by Riphah International University, PCRWR, Water Aid, University of Haripur and Comstech in collaboration with leading water and environmental research institutions. The two days International water conference brought together water actors and community from home and abroad to discuss the country’s water issues and to facilitate inter-institutional and inter-sectoral dialogue to strengthen the role of research, innovation, and technology in sustainable water management. With over 100 research papers scheduled for presentation, the conference will serve as a vital platform to discuss emerging challenges and innovative solutions related to water sector.

In addition to inaugural session, Six Technical sessions will feature high-level dialogues, technical paper presentations, and thematic roundtables with participation from academia, government bodies, NGOs, and development organisations. Key topics include; Environment and Climate Change, Food and Agriculture, Glaciology and Snow Hydrology, Navigating the Challenges of WASH, Circular Water Economy, Policy, and Governance, AI for Water Security. The main speakers are; Prof. Dr Anis Ahmad, VC, Riphah International University, Dr Shafiq VC, University of Haripur, Mian Muhammad Junaid, Country Director, Water-Aid, Dr. Hifza Rasheed, D.G, PCRWR, Nasir M. Qureshi President Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Prof Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General of Comstech.

The speakers emphasise the importance of water resources as Pakistan is among the most water-stressed countries globally, which has significant implications for food security, public health and economic stability. Highlighting the urgent need for collective action to address the growing uncertainties around water resources and to strengthen stakeholder relationships and foster innovative solutions to the country’s water security challenges.