Department of Water Supply
and Environmental Engineering
Water supply and environmental engineering is a broad study field which integrates basic engineering principles and science fundamentals to realize advances in basic human necessities like water and the environment. The program was founded in September 2010 G.C. under the auspices of Hawassa University, Institute of Technology, School of Biosystems and Environmental Engineering. Since then, it has taken part in several activities. Moreover, a PhD program in water supply and sanitation specialization and a Master of Science degree in water supply and environmental engineering were launched in 2014 E.C
The department aims to play a pivotal role in supporting the national effort to achieve SDG 6 by producing skilled professionals and fostering innovative research in water, sanitation, and related fields. Our mission is to equip graduates and postgraduates with the practical competence and creative problem-solving abilities needed to address critical challenges in these sectors, bridging the gaps the nation strives to close. Through rigorous training, practical exposure, and cutting-edge research, we are committed to developing experts who can contribute meaningfully to sustainable water management and sanitation solutions. To achieve this, the program is designed to be completed in five (5) years, including the freshman year and a total of ten semesters.
Graduate
profile of the WSEE program
The Water Supply and Environmental Engineering program is designed to address the shortage of trained professionals in water supply and sanitary engineering. The program focuses on producing job-oriented, marketable professionals skilled in the planning, design, construction, and operation of water supply and sanitation systems, as well as protecting environmental resources like air, water, and soil. Graduates will be capable of:
- Collecting and analysing data for water supply design
- Designing water distribution systems, boreholes, intake structures, and water supply infrastructure
- Analysing water and wastewater quality based on local and international standards
- Designing and managing water supply projects, reservoirs, dams, and treatment systems
- Developing sanitary and sewerage systems, waste disposal sites, and remediation plans
- Monitoring air pollution and predicting contaminant movement in air, water, and soil
- Conducting environmental impact assessments and designing recycling technologies
Additionally, graduates will be able to:
- Work as effective water resources and environmental engineers in regional and federal agencies, municipalities, consulting firms, and NGOs
- Collaborate in multidisciplinary teams to find practical, cost-effective solutions
- Engage in lifelong learning and maintain ethical, professional standards
The B.Sc. in Water Supply and Environmental Engineering also serves as a foundation for postgraduate studies in fields such as: Water Supply and Sanitation Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Sanitary Engineering, Water Resources Engineering and Management, Hydraulic Engineering, Geo-technical Engineering, Construction Technology Management, Soil and Water Conservation Engineering, and Water and Environmental Health.
Potential employers of graduates of the program
Graduates of the Water Supply and Environmental Engineering (WSEE) program have a wide range of potential employers, including government agencies, private consulting firms, NGOs, and organisations focused on water resources, environmental protection, and infrastructure development. The following are some of the potential employers that can be listed:-
- Ministry of Water and Energy
- Ministry of Environment and Forests
- Environmental Protection Agency
- Town Municipality
- Construction and Design Enterprises (Federal and Regional)
- Contractors and Consultants
- Higher Institutions as Instructor or Researcher
- NGO’S like World vision, USAID, Action aid…
- Zonal and regional Water, mines and Energy Bureau and office
Publications with brief description, sorted by department
The summary table below presents the distribution of staff research publications across eight key areas of environmental and water resource management, reflecting the department's primary research focuses.
The staff has given significant attention to Water/Waste Water Quality/Treatment, with 14 publications, demonstrating a strong commitment to addressing critical challenges in water pollution and treatment processes.
No | Area of Publications | No of publications |
| 1 | Water/waste water quality/treatment
| 14 |
| 2 | Water supply | 1 |
| 3 | Hydrology | 7 |
| 4 | Soil management | 1 |
| 5 | Climate change | 1 |
| 6 | Solid waste management | 2 |
| 7 | Irrigation | 2 |
| 8 | others | 3 |
Available Resources and Facilities
The program is equipped with a fully operational Environmental Engineering Laboratory, which plays a vital role in supporting a wide range of research and testing activities. This well-established laboratory is capable of conducting various tests in the areas of water quality, wastewater quality, and solid waste management. Specifically, it offers services for physical, chemical, and biological water quality analysis, ensuring that the quality of water resources can be accurately assessed to meet environmental and health standards. Similarly, the laboratory is equipped to perform physical, chemical, and biological wastewater quality analysis, helping to evaluate the treatment and safety of wastewater before it is released back into the environment.
Additionally, the laboratory is well-versed in the analysis of biosolids/sludge and solid waste, providing crucial data for waste management practices and sustainability efforts. The laboratory not only supports the academic and research needs of various departments within the university, but it also extends its services to collaborate with external stakeholders, such as industry partners, government agencies, and environmental organizations. This collaborative effort enhances the university’s contribution to environmental research and fosters valuable partnerships outside the academic realm, making the laboratory a key asset in addressing global environmental challenges.
