The President of the National Water Research Center Presents a Proposal for a “UNESCO Chair” During the Celebration of the Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme in Paris
As part of the participation of a high-level delegation headed by H.E. Prof. Dr. Hani Sewilam – Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation – in the celebration of 50 years of the Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme, organized by UNESCO at its headquarters in Paris, Prof. Dr. Sherif Mohamady – President of the National Water Research Center (NWRC) – took part in the event, proudly representing Egypt.
During one of the sessions organized by the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation as part of the celebration program, Prof. Dr. Sherif Mohamady delivered a presentation highlighting Egypt’s proposal to establish a UNESCO Chair, aiming to enhance cooperation in the management of transboundary water resources through a shared, forward-looking, and inclusive vision.
He explained that the Chair’s vision integrates multiple disciplines, including:
Hydrology
Environmental sciences
International water law
Political & social sciences
This multidisciplinary approach ensures a sustainable and integrated water governance model, focusing on both blue water and green water.
Prof. Mohamady also emphasized a unique feature of the proposal: the focus on inclusive water governance, with a participatory approach that involves:
Local communities Youth, Decision-makers, Women empowerment, targeting at least 60% female participation in training programs.
In his concluding remarks, Prof. Mohamady outlined the Chair’s key activities:
Education & capacity building
Research & knowledge exchange
Stakeholder engagement
Serving as an international platform for dialogue and cooperation in water management
