Postgraduate Certificate in Indigenous Water Innovation
Published on June 19, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today I'm thrilled to have Dr. Maria Rivera, an expert in water resource management and lead instructor for the Postgraduate Certificate in Indigenous Water Innovation. Dr. Rivera, can you tell us a bit about this course and what inspired you to create it? GUEST: Thanks for having me! The course is designed to empower Indigenous leaders and professionals in sustainable water management. Having worked with various Indigenous communities, I saw the need for a program that combines traditional ecological knowledge with modern water science. HOST: That's fascinating. How does the course incorporate traditional ecological knowledge into the curriculum? GUEST: We emphasize the importance of community-based project development and learning directly from Indigenous water stewards. It's about respecting and valuing their knowledge and understanding how it can be applied alongside modern water science. HOST: I see. And what are some current trends in water innovation that are relevant to this course? GUEST: There's growing recognition of the value of Indigenous water management practices, as well as increased interest in decentralized water systems. Our course addresses these trends by fostering collaboration and leadership in Indigenous water sovereignty. HOST: That's great to hear. Now, what challenges do you face when teaching this subject, especially in blending traditional and modern approaches? GUEST: Balancing the two perspectives can be tricky, but it's crucial to create an inclusive learning environment. We encourage open dialogue and mutual respect to ensure both worldviews are valued and understood. HOST: Looking to the future, where do you see Indigenous water innovation heading? GUEST: I believe we'll see more Indigenous-led water projects and policies, emphasizing environmental sustainability and social responsibility. Our goal is to equip students to become champions for these changes. HOST: Dr. Maria Rivera, thank you so much for joining us today and sharing valuable insights about the Postgraduate Certificate in Indigenous Water Innovation. If you're listening and want to learn more about this unique opportunity, visit our website for more information.
