Ensuring the availability and sustainable management of clean water and sanitation for all is one of the fundamental pillars of sustainable development. Water quality directly impacts public health, food security, education, and livelihoods. King Salman International University (KSIU) recognizes the importance of this goal in creating an integrated educational and healthy environment that enables students, staff, and the local community to access safe and clean water while minimizing waste and promoting environmental sustainability.
Global Context and Importance of the Goal
Although freshwater resources are sufficient on the planet, poor management and inadequate infrastructure lead to the deaths of millions annually—mostly children—due to water-related diseases or poor sanitation. It is expected that by 2050, one in every four people will live in areas suffering from chronic or recurrent freshwater shortages, increasing the need for innovative and sustainable solutions to ensure water security.
Scientific Research
KSIU’s research output in the field of clean water and sanitation represents a key focus area within the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). According to Scival data (2021–2024), the university published 16 research papers with a total impact of 38.20 and 1,589 citations. The research covers areas such as water quality and desalination, water resource management, smart irrigation projects, and environmental sustainability. The university encourages international publication to enhance its visibility and contribution to global scientific communities.
University Efforts and Practical Initiatives
King Salman International University strives to ensure the sustainable use of water resources across its campuses and research activities, emphasizing conservation and innovation. Key initiatives include:
- Drilling a well at Ras Sudr Campus for irrigation of the university’s farm and landscape with a discharge rate of 70 m³/hour, totaling 500–600 m³/day.
- Implementing smart irrigation systems and automatic central control units, reducing campus irrigation water consumption by 30–35%.
- Executing a smart irrigation technology project funded by the Academy of Scientific Research and Technology – Egypt (EGP 1.4 million) to enhance water productivity and energy efficiency in precision agriculture under climate change challenges.
- Establishing an 18-acre educational and research farm at Ras Sudr Campus, cultivated with olives, jojoba, and various vegetable crops.
- Contracting with a specialized company for the marketing of the farm’s production.
- Signing contracts for the establishment of a groundwater desalination plant to ensure the sustainability of green areas.
- Integrating digital infrastructure and monitoring systems to optimize water use in irrigation.
- Conducting regular maintenance of water tanks, valves, and pipelines, including installing 18 main valve chambers and 4 air valve rooms to prevent pipe breakage and water loss.
- Utilizing high-quality water tanks, filters, and sanitary fixtures to ensure the supply of clean and safe water.
- Introducing proposals for collecting condensation water from air-conditioning units and reusing it for irrigation.
- Conducting daily inspections and maintenance of all water sources and consumption points across university facilities.
- Cleaning and disinfecting water storage tanks periodically through specialized service providers.
- Collaborating with the National Water Research Center and the Egyptian Forum for Sustainable Development to promote joint research on water management, desalination, and sustainability.
Desert Agriculture and Natural Resource Exploration
Students from the Desert Agriculture program and the Petroleum Chemistry program conducted field trips in South Sinai to study natural resources, including water management in desert agriculture. These activities provided students with hands-on experience in the sustainable use of scarce water resources and environmental conservation.
Environmental Awareness Initiatives and Marathons
University branches in Sharm El-Sheikh organized environmental awareness events, including 2 km marathons, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and climate change mitigation. While primarily focused on environmental education, these initiatives also promoted water conservation and the responsible management of natural resources.
Sustainable Tourism and Environmental Projects
Students of Architecture and Tourism programs participated in field trips to eco-resorts and protected areas, such as Nuweiba Environmental Resorts and Ras Mohammed Protected Area. These educational activities focused on sustainable resource management, including water conservation strategies in tourism operations and community development projects.
Partnerships and International Cooperation
KSIU strengthens its impact through formal agreements with the National Water Research Center and the Egyptian Forum for Sustainable Development, in addition to joint research projects supporting applied research in water, smart irrigation, and resource management. These collaborations ensure the alignment of university activities with global sustainable development goals.
Conclusion
King Salman International University presents an exemplary model for water resource management within educational institutions, emphasizing research, innovation, awareness, and partnerships. The university’s commitment to sustainable practices reflects its strategic alignment with SDG 6—ensuring clean water and sanitation for all—and its broader vision of providing a healthy, sustainable learning environment that serves both the university community and the wider society.