The Stockholm Junior Water Prize has always aimed to encourage young people to engage with water challenges. This year, that engagement took a new step with the introduction of the University Cohort, bringing university students together to explore water-related issues, exchange ideas and connect with the wider water community.
The first cohort brought together ten university students from different academic backgrounds and experiences. Among them were SJWP alumni, who were given an opportunity to stay connected to the Prize as they moved into a new stage of their education.
During World Water Week, the cohort had the opportunity to meet researchers and professionals, take part in sessions and activities, and exchange perspectives with other young people working on water-related issues.
The students also took an active role in the programme. The University Cohort led an interactive session hosted by Xylem, the Founding Global Sponsor of the Stockholm Junior Water Prize, focusing on youth-led water action.
The session explored how young people can contribute to addressing water challenges and created a space for dialogue between students and professionals. By leading the session, the cohort members brought their own experiences and perspectives into the conversation.
The University Cohort builds on the Stockholm Junior Water Prize’s long-standing commitment to engaging young people in water. Since 1997, the Prize has given students from around the world a platform to develop and present research addressing water challenges. The University Cohort extends this engagement beyond the competition, creating another way for university students to remain connected to water and to the SJWP community.
The first cohort marks the beginning of the initiative. As the University Cohort develops, it will create further opportunities for university students to exchange ideas, build connections and explore their role in the future of water.
