Strengthening Partnerships for Innovation: PHG and Birzeit University Collaborate with IHE Delft on Water Solutions

Delft, Netherlands – July 18, 2025
A delegation from the Palestinian Hydrology Group (PHG) and Birzeit University (BZU) visited the IHE Delft Institute for Water Education, marking a new chapter in a partnership spanning over 25 years in water, energy, and capacity-building initiatives.

The visit, supported by the DUPC3-funded AGRIMAR project led by PHG and the new C3WASH project led by BZU, concluded with a strategic meeting with IHE Delft Rector Prof. Eddy Moors. Discussions focused on expanding joint applied research and innovation in the Global South.

“It’s about sharpening our focus and delivering knowledge where it matters most,” said Prof. Moors.

Key Collaboration Areas:

• Water Reuse and Resource Recovery:
  Joint projects will focus on wastewater reuse, sludge valorisation, and nutrient recovery, supporting sustainable utilities and circular economies.
• Water-Energy-Food Nexus:
  Partners plan to develop integrated solutions and co-supervise PhD students under BZU’s new doctoral program in Energy and Environmental Technology.

“We are designing training programs for women-centered decision-makers,” noted PHG Director Prof. Abdelrahman Tamimi.

• Climate Resilience:
  Pilot initiatives will address flood and drought risks through locally grounded, climate-adaptive infrastructure.

“We aim for practical, locally relevant solutions,” added Prof. Rashed Al-Sa`ed, BZU Adjunct Professor.

Looking forward, PHG, BZU, and IHE Delft affirmed their commitment to co-supervising MSc and PhD students, seeking joint European research funding, and developing Arabic-language digital training for Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF) professionals.

“This is not just a partnership; it’s a shared vision for science-driven, equitable water solutions,” said Prof. Al-Sa`ed. “The next 25 years start now.”