Dear Nyembezi,

This is honestly so inspiring to see, the work that SAG-WSS is doing is such a big step forward for Zambia’s WASH sector. I really love how the internship and mentorship programs are creating real, hands-on opportunities for young people. That kind of exposure is exactly what many sectors still struggle to provide.What’s even more exciting is the potential to scale this up and link it with other sector efforts. There’s so much space for local innovation groups, youth-led initiatives, and other partners to plug in and make the impact even bigger.I can really see a great opportunity here to bridge some of these conversations and build stronger connections across different initiatives. It would be great to hear thoughts on how we can make that happen.

I’ll be sure to stay connected and follow along for updates.

Since the reformation of the Water Supply and Sanitation (WSS) sector in Zambia, one of the persistent challenges has been the limited investment in skills development. This gap has had ripple effects across the sector, creating difficulties in ensuring effective service delivery and innovation.

In that regard, the Skills Advisory Group in Water Supply and Sanitation (SAG-WSS) was established in 2020. The SAG-WSS is a government-driven multi-stakeholder steering committee designed to close the gap between water and sanitation employers, employees, and skills providers. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, the group is working towards improving the interface between skills demand and supply in the sector, in a sustainable way.
What has the SAG-WSS achieved so far?

• Facilitation of Internship/ Mentorship Program for over a hundred graduates in water related programs in Zambia
• Awards  best performing female students pursuing water and water related programs
• Hosts Girls Takeover Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) events to expose secondary schools to the water sector
• Hosts Guest lectures with students pursuing water related programs
• Acting as a coordinator for WSS skills providers at TEVET level, government, association and employers in the sector

The establishment of SAG-WSS is an important milestone in strengthening Zambia’s Water Supply and Sanitation sector. By aligning training, research, and practical needs with the evolving trends and demands of the industry, the group is laying the foundation for a skilled and resilient workforce. From inception, continued collaboration among stakeholders has been critical in ensuring that the sector not only addresses current skills gaps but ultimately contributing to sustainable water and
sanitation services for all.

Stay connected with the SAG-WSS on our social media platforms on Facebook , LinkedIn  and Instagram  for latest updates on our initiatives.