Postrgraduate water studies programme - the Malta experiment

Abstract

A presentation is given of the postgraduate water studies programme, hosted by the Mediterranean Institute of the University of Malta. Devised on the themes of integrated resource management and capacity building, the programme attempts to teach these concepts, taking into consideration the local and regional context, both in the physical and human dimension. It focuses in particular on the challenges associated with coastal aquifers, more especially in limestone terrains, as well as on the socio-economic conditions of a fast developing Mediterranean country. The programme emphasizes the importance of advanced information technology as an essential tool in integrated resource management. Likewise, remote sensing and geographic information systems are highlighted as important environmental management tools. By stressing the multi-disciplinary approach needed to tackle present and future environmental challenges, whereby water, in all its aspects, is most often attracting the main focus of attention, the programme promotes inter-sectoral communication and co-operation.