The Energy & Water Sector Education Training Authority (EWSETA) is placing the spotlight on the vital role of skills development in strengthening South Africa’s water sector, particularly as the country faces mounting pressure on water resources, infrastructure and service delivery.

Representing the organisation’s water portfolio, EWSETA water sector manager Dr Mmaphefo Thwala emphasises the importance of building a capable, future-focused workforce that can respond to the sector’s growing complexity and evolving demands.

As the authority in the education and training within the energy and water sector, EWSETA is tasked with supporting skills development across the full water value chain. This includes conducting research, engaging with stakeholders and implementing targeted interventions that ensure the sector has the technical and operational capacity to deliver sustainable water services. The organisation’s work is closely aligned with national priorities such as water security, infrastructure maintenance and long-term sustainability.

One of the key challenges facing the water sector is the diversity and complexity of its skills requirements, notes Thwala. Factors such as climate change, ageing infrastructure, rising demand, non-revenue water losses and the introduction of new technologies are reshaping the landscape.

“As a result, there is an increasing need for a broad mix of capabilities, ranging from technical and occupational skills to digital, operational and management expertise. Areas such as water efficiency, demand management, smart metering, wastewater reuse, process optimisation and water quality management are becoming particularly important,”she notes.

EWSETA is addressing these challenges by strengthening the link between skills development and real sector needs. Through initiatives such as workplace-based learning, artisan development, internships, bursaries and learnerships, the organisation is helping to build a pipeline of skilled professionals equipped to operate and maintain critical water infrastructure. Partnerships with municipalities, water boards, educational institutions and industry stakeholders play a central role in ensuring that training programmes are relevant, practical and aligned with the realities of the sector.

Importantly, EWSETA is also highlighting the growing importance of data, monitoring and innovation in the water sector. As systems become more advanced and interconnected, the ability to manage resources efficiently and sustainably will depend on a workforce that is not only technically skilled, but also capable of leveraging new technologies and approaches.

As discussions at Enlit Africa continue to shape the future of infrastructure across the continent, EWSETA’s message is clear: water security depends on skilled people at every level. By investing in human capability and fostering strong partnerships, the organisation is helping to build a more resilient, inclusive and sustainable water sector for South Africa.

EWSETA water sector manager Dr Mmaphefo Thwala speaks to Engineering News at Enlit Africa 2026 about the importance of building a capable, future-focused workforce that can respond to the sector’s growing complexity and evolving demands.