We were delighted to welcome the Water Research Commission (WRC) of South Africa to START Centre. During the visit, we shared about Singapore’s water needs and ecosystem — from our emphasis on water security and the Four National Taps strategy, to the vibrant network of research institutions, industry players, and government agencies working together to advance water solutions. We also shared about START Centre’s role in Singapore’s water innovation ecosystem — bridging research, industry, and policy to accelerate the translation of water technologies and solutions.

The Water Research Commission (WRC) is a national public entity established to support water-related research, development, and innovation (RDI) in South Africa. It plays a critical role in generating knowledge, building capacity, and informing policy to ensure sustainable water resource management. The WRC works closely with government, academia, industry, and communities to address pressing challenges such as water scarcity, climate change, and equitable access to water and sanitation.

The Young Engineers Changemakers Programme (YECP) is one of the WRC’s key capacity development initiatives. It aims to build a new generation of skilled municipal engineers who can contribute to innovation and sustainable water management in South Africa.