Water shapes lives in ways that are both visible and unseen. In communities across the Thabo Mofutsanyana District Municipality, access to water touches health, dignity, safety, and opportunity. On 2 and 3 July 2026, the Centre for Global Change at the University of the Free State (UFS) will host a Water-Gender-Social Vulnerability Symposium in Phuthaditjhaba, bringing together voices from across sectors to engage with one of the most urgent challenges of our time.

Academics, community members, policymakers, and practitioners will come together to explore how water scarcity affects gender inequality, poverty, and everyday life, while working towards practical, sustainable solutions. Discussions will range from emerging ideas in water management to the on the ground challenges of sanitation and health, enriched by insights from two keynote experts: Prof Martin Nyaga, Head of the UFS Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) Unit, on water related health issues, and Prof Grey Magaiza, Associate Professor in Community Development, on social vulnerability. Community members will share first-hand experiences of the daily impact of water scarcity, while high schoolteachers will highlight youth safety and resilience, especially among girls. In addition, community leaders, including royal houses and municipalities, will outline the measures they are taking to address the effects of water shortages on local households.

Dr Lehlohonolo Mofokeng explains, “This symposium creates a platform for communities and researchers to engage meaningfully on water challenges and to learn from each other.” He adds, “Understanding how communities adapt to water scarcity helps shape research that responds directly to real needs and supports long-term resilience.”

The programme will include keynote addresses, interactive presentations, panel discussions, and opportunities for collaboration. Community stakeholders will share first-hand experiences, while educators and local leaders will offer perspectives on resilience, especially among young people and women. 

At its core, the symposium advances the University of the Free State’s commitment to responsible societal futures. By connecting research, policy, and community insight, it contributes to solutions that are both informed and actionable.

Abstract submissions are open until 5 June 2026. Researchers, students, community leaders, and practitioners are invited to be part of this important conversation where knowledge has the power to shape a more just and sustainable future.

Direct your enquiries to Noxolo Phungula on PhungulaNS@ufs.ac.za or Dr Lehlohonolo Mofokeng on MofokengL4@ufs.ac.za