The International Water Conference (IWC) 2025, held from March 19-20, 2025, at the Centre of Excellence for Water and Sanitation (CEWAS) in Sri Lanka, proved to be a remarkable and transformative event for the global water and sanitation sector. Hosted by the National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB), the conference coincided with the 9th Research Symposium and the World Water Day Celebration, making it a landmark occasion that brought together experts, policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers from around the world.

This year’s theme, “Sustainable Water and Wastewater Management through Innovation, Research, Digitalization, and Resilience for the Future,” was at the core of every discussion, session, and presentation throughout the conference. The NWSDB, celebrating its 50th anniversary, used this momentous occasion to reflect on five decades of excellence in Sri Lanka’s water sector while setting a course for the future of sustainable water management.

The event kicked off with a series of high-level discussions, where global leaders in water and sanitation explored innovative solutions to address the challenges of water distribution, wastewater treatment, and resource conservation. These sessions set the stage for meaningful conversations around the role of digitalization, research, and resilience in shaping the future of water management.

A key highlight of the conference was the 9th Research Symposium, where professionals from NWSDB and other local and international institutions presented groundbreaking research findings. The symposium served as a vital platform for bridging the gap between scientific innovation and real-world application, with an emphasis on fostering collaboration between academic experts, industry professionals, and policymakers.

In addition to the research symposium, the conference featured business forums and expert sessions, which provided opportunities for networking, investment, and policy development. These forums focused on areas such as sustainable infrastructure financing, digital tools in water management, and policy development—all crucial for ensuring efficient and equitable access to water resources in the future.
The conference culminated in a World Water Day Celebration, amplifying the need for responsible water management and sustainable practices at both policy and grassroots levels.
Overall, the IWC 2025 was a catalyst for action, marking the beginning of a new era in global water management. It reinforced the critical importance of innovation, collaboration, and research in ensuring a water-secure future for all. The conference not only celebrated the achievements of NWSDB over the past 50 years but also set a bold, sustainable vision for water and wastewater management in the decades to come.