Flowing Forward: from online learning to practical application in Bangladesh

In August, World Water Academy reached an important new milestone in the Flowing Forward programme. During a programme visit to Dhaka and Chattogram, professionals from several public-sector organisations took part in learning activities focused on two key themes: sustainable Asset Management and Public-Private Partnerships for water infrastructure. Through training, workshops and stakeholder consultations, participants strengthened the knowledge and skills needed to manage water infrastructure more sustainably and develop new projects more effectively.

Building capacity for long-term impact

Bangladesh is investing in water safety, drinking water, wastewater and urban water infrastructure. For these investments to remain successful in the long term, approaches such as Asset Management and Public-Private Partnerships are essential alongside technical solutions. Flowing Forward addresses these topics through e-learning, face-to-face training, practical assignments, peer learning, international knowledge exchange and the development of a local trainer pool. The programme runs until September 2027 and is implemented with support from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Dhaka and the Partners for Water programme.

Applying Asset Management in Bangladesh

As part of the Asset Management learning journey, World Water Academy delivered a training course for staff from the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) and a Core Team Capacity Building Training for the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB). Participants explored how strategic objectives, technical decisions and the daily operation and maintenance of water infrastructure are connected. International Asset Management principles were applied to local challenges, real-life cases and existing working processes. These activities also provided a foundation for a broader learning pathway for field-level staff, mid-level professionals, senior management and future trainers.

Project Development Bootcamp in Chattogram

A key part of the visit was the three-day Public-Private Partnerships Project Development Bootcamp for professionals from Chattogram Water Supply and Sewerage Authority (CWASA) and Chattogram City Corporation (CCC). Participants worked through the main steps of project development, including project identification, feasibility, risk allocation, financing, procurement and contract management. The Bootcamp was delivered by Boris Neefjes, former Managing Director of Delfluent Services in the Netherlands, and Nazrul Islam, former Managing Director of Infrastructure Investment Facilitation Company in Bangladesh. Their combined Dutch and Bangladeshi experience helped participants connect international insights to the local context and apply them to their own project cases.

Blended learning and peer motivation

The new e-learning programmes on Asset Management and Public-Private Partnerships formed an important starting point for both learning journeys. Usage data show that the modules were widely accessed and actively used by participants. Participants encouraged one another to complete the modules and shared their certificates within their professional networks. The e-learnings created a shared foundation for the face-to-face training while also supporting peer learning, knowledge sharing and continued engagement within the participating organisations.

Looking ahead

The August visit has provided a strong foundation for the next phase of Flowing Forward. The upcoming programme includes advanced PPP training, advanced Asset Management training, a practice-oriented Asset Management course for field officers and a Training of Trainers programme. An international study visit will also enable participants to exchange knowledge and practical experience with water-sector organisations outside Bangladesh. Through these connected learning activities, Flowing Forward aims to strengthen institutional capacity and support the long-term application of knowledge and skills within participating organisations.