The Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA) has awarded the top two diploma graduates from the Water Institute, with laptops and a 6m/- total cash prize in recognition of their academic excellence.

They are Florence Theonist, a graduate of Diploma in Water Supply and Environmental Sanitation Engineering, and Emmanuel Nyaki who earned a Diploma in Water Quality Laboratory Technology. Each got one laptop and 3m/-. 

The awards were presented by Minister for Water, Jumaa Aweso, during the 48th graduation ceremony of the Water Institute in Dar es Salaam on Wednesday. 

In his speech, Minister Aweso emphasized the importance of such incentives in motivating students to excel and take on leadership roles in the sector. 

“Support like this fuels the drive and ambition of students, encouraging them to pursue excellence in their studies and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the EWURA Director-General, David Linda, senior water and environmental engineer, explained that the awards are part of a broader strategy to promote the development of skilled professionals within the water sector. 

He said the gesture also aimed at celebrating their achievements and inspiring other young people to pursue careers in the water sector.

Linda noted that the water sector in Tanzania faces major challenges, including ensuring equitable access to clean and safe water across the country. 

To overcome them, he said, there is a critical need for well-trained professionals capable of implementing and maintaining sustainable water systems. 

As Tanzania works towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) number 6, which aims to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all, EWURA’s partnership with the Water College is vital. 

 “As the regulator of the water sector, we understand that without a sufficient number of experts, it will be impossible to meet the goal of providing safe, clean water to all Tanzanians. That’s why we are committed to working closely with educational institutions like the Water College to produce a new generation of water experts,” he said.

Theonist expressed her gratitude to EWURA for the recognition and support. 

“The laptop I received will be vital for my technical work, especially as water engineering heavily relies on digital tools and software for designing, analyzing, and managing water systems. The award will help me develop further in my career and contribute to improving water services in our communities,” he said.

Nyaki urged continuing students to remain committed to their studies, emphasizing that professional skills and dedication are crucial for improving Tanzania’s water sector and advancing the country’s sustainable development goals.