Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) proudly hosted the World Water Day 2024 celebration under the theme “Water for Peace.” The event, jointly organized by the Water Engineering and Management (WEM) Program of the School of Engineering and Technology (SET) and the Global Water and Sanitation Center (GWSC), aimed to foster dialogue, inspire action, and promote sustainable water management practices.
Prof. Kazuo Yamamoto, AIT President, emphasized the importance of freshwater resources in promoting sustainable practices and addressing pressing challenges. Prof. Yamamoto highlighted AIT’s longstanding commitment to sustainable development in Asia and beyond, particularly in the field of water management, through education, research, and outreach initiatives.
In his welcome remarks, Prof. Sangam Shrestha, Dean, SET, and Co-Director of GWSC, expressed gratitude to esteemed guests and emphasized the significance of water as a crucial element in fostering peace and cooperation across borders and communities. Highlighting the presence of Dr. Anoulak Kittikhoun, Chief Executive Officer of the Mekong River Commission Secretariat, Prof. Shrestha underscored the importance of regional cooperation in managing and protecting water resources.
Dr. Anoulak Kittikhoun delivered a compelling keynote speech, emphasizing the need for proactive planning and coordinated efforts to ensure the sustainability of the Mekong River. He called for a shift from reactive to proactive planning and stressed the importance of information sharing and trust-building among Mekong countries. Dr. Kittikhoun proposed the establishment of sister river partnerships and joint infrastructure projects as mechanisms to foster friendship, build trust, and create a shared future for the region.
The event witnessed insightful virtual messages from prominent figures in the water sector, each bringing their expertise to the forefront. Participants showcased their creativity and insights through both monologues and photos, shedding light on the theme “Water for Peace.”
In the closing remarks, Prof. Thammarat Koottatep, Professor of Environmental Engineering and Management and Co-Director of the GWSC reflected on the importance of water for peace, emphasizing the need for good water quality to achieve true harmony. He stressed that World Water Day is not just a one-day event but a continuous endeavor to ensure water accessibility and protect it from contaminants. Despite current challenges, he expressed optimism that ensuring sufficient and clean water for all can pave the way for peace in the future.
Read more : https://wem.ait.ac.th/world-water-day-2024-celebration-at-ait-embracing-water-for-peace/
