Introduction

The Universities for Water Network (UWN) was formally launched on 7^th June, 2014 with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Hisaar Foundation and NED University of Engineering and Technology (NEDUET).

The UWN was established with the realization that Pakistan faces serious issues in terms of water sustainability and security.  At the moment, there is limited focus on water issues in Pakistan, however, the increasing pressures of climate change, population growth, urbanization and growing energy needs are together putting greater demands on our limited freshwater resources. But there is lack of critical thinking and little planning for the future in terms of what is required to manage our water resource and prime our water infrastructure for optimal use.

Pakistan is further handicapped by a dearth of research and scientific intelligence. Sensible approaches to advocacy, policy making and solutions to water and food problems need to be based on scientific database and research. Such research capabilities and the related capacity to use this research is urgently needed.  Water resources are also grossly mismanaged in Pakistan resulting in huge losses due to wastage, pollution and poor management.  This further exacerbates imbalances in food and livelihoods and results in water shortages across the country.

The Universities for Water Network intends to bridge the gap between theory and practice by developing sound research capabilities and fostering scientific investigations and in-depth study.