World Water Day Celebrated at Bahir Dar University with Focus on “Water and Gender”
[March 22, 2026 | Bahir Dar, ISC/BiT]
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World Water Day was celebrated at Bahir Dar University’s Institute of Technology (BiT) under the 2026 global theme, “Water and Gender,” highlighting the strong connection between water accessibility and women’s empowerment.
The event brought together academic staff, students, researchers, and partner organizations to discuss critical water challenges and promote sustainable and inclusive solutions.
In his keynote address, Dr. Asegdew Gashaw, Dean of the Faculty of Civil and Water Resources Engineering, emphasized the essential role of water in human life and development. He noted that limited access to water disproportionately affects women, particularly in rural communities, and called for strengthened efforts to ensure equitable water access and supply.
Welcoming participants, Dr. Goraw Goshu, Director of the Blue Nile Water Institute, stated that the program was organized in collaboration with the Faculty and CARE Ethiopia. He expressed appreciation for the growing institutional commitment to celebrating World Water Day annually at Bahir Dar University and extended gratitude to all participants.
Delivering the opening remarks, Dr. Amare Kassaw, Deputy Scientific Director for Academic Affairs, highlighted the Institute’s ongoing contributions to science, technology, and innovation. He stressed that water is fundamental to life and development, and underscored the importance of empowering women, who are most affected by water scarcity.
Dr. Amare also noted that the university is actively engaged in water-related education and research through undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs, as well as partnerships with organizations such as CARE Ethiopia and regional institutions to improve water supply systems in both rural and urban areas.
The program featured key presentations, including:
• Challenges of drinking water in rural communities of Ethiopia – Mr. Mesenbet Fentie, Chair of Water Supply and Sanitation Engineering, FCWRE, BIT
• Assessment of household water security resource status in Dera Woreda – Selamawit Kasaw (PhD Student, BDU) 
• Gender and Sustainable Water Systems: Why Women’s Leadership Matters – Dr. Adugnaw.
A panel discussion and interactive Q&A session followed, allowing participants to share insights and recommendations.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Muluken Zegeye, Deputy Scientific Director for Research and Technology Transfer, stressed the importance of evaluating past efforts and ensuring that research leads to practical, on-the-ground impact. He also called for stronger collaboration and increased participation of women in water-related initiatives.
The event concluded with a call for continued commitment to improving water accessibility, promoting gender equality, and translating research into tangible community benefits.
The program concluded with an engaging discussion session where participants shared insights, raised questions, and received responses from presenters. 
Summary of key messages and recommendations by Dr. Mohammod.
The event was moderated by Dr. Fasil Tadese,
Information and Strategic Communication Office
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