On 4 December 2018, an international academic conference titled “Sustainable Environmental Conservation: Water Resources” was hosted by the University of Yangon (UY), Yangon, Myanmar and supported by AUA. In the opening address, Rector of UY Professor Dr Pho Kaung welcomed presenters, special guests, and all participants to UY, highlighting the objectives and themes of the conference. Professor Kaung said:
“All of us are aware that water is one of the most essential needs for the continuous survival of human beings. There is a saying in Myanmar: One can go without food for a week but without water for just half of a day. Our country is rich in water resources but the water shortages can still be found in the Dry-Zone, in central Myanmar. I believe that these water-related issues can be addressed through the fruitful and engaging discussions during the conference.”
Rector Dr Pho Kaung delivering the opening address at the AUA-UY Academic Conference
In panel session 1 of the AUA-UY Academic Conference 2018, under the theme of “Water Resources Management and Sustainable Development”, seven presenters from AUA member universities shared their research findings and knowledge. Following the presentations, discussions focused on the threatening impact of climate change on ecosystems and environments that protect vital water resources. Discussants reinforced the importance of improving the treatment of water systems and water resources such as storm, ground water and waste water.
Dr. Nan Li from Tsinghua University presenting his research paper titled“Access The Change of Water Quality in The Sponge City of LCTIP”
In panel session 2, titled “River Conservation and Management”, four presenters outlined their research outcomes relating to the theme. Speakers provided unique perspectives, stating that river conservation must be based on principles of ecological sustainability and social justice. Presenters highlighted the importance of involving both planning authorities and local communities in river conservation and management as it is closely connected to environmental and economic benefits of people who dwell along rivers. River conservation is also associated with issues of urbanization and population dense regions, where flood risk reduction is of high priority. Discussants recommended that to ensure sustainable development, social impact assessments need to be developed in the primary stage of the national planning decision-making process.
UY Rector, special guests and all participants of the AUA-UY Academic Conference
In the final panel session, under the sub-topic of “Climate Change, Environmental Policy and Water Resource Development”, five presenters shared their research findings. An active discussion followed, with participants espousing the view that it is essential to enhance the judicial role in environmental litigation to protect the environment for present and future generations and to achieve sustainable development. It was mentioned that inducing green building design is an apt way for the regions of hot-dry tropical climatic conditions to control or modify water consumption. Concluding the discussion, participants agreed that the world’s supply of groundwater is steadily decreasing and ecosystems are threatened and increased efforts are required for sustainable water management in all countries, regardless of economic development. Environmental policy should not be limited to only local or regional governance and according to participants, international collaboration is crucial for effective water resource management.
Dr. Kokila Konasinghe from University of Colombo answering a question from the audience about the environmental impactassessment in Sri Lanka
In the closing address, Dr Omar Kyaw, Pro Rector of UY emphasized the importance of the AUA-UY event and its impact on UY’s academic growth. She said:
“I hope that the academic conference today will be a stepping stone for us to have deeper collaboration with AUA members. The University of Yangon is now opening up and pursuing academic freedom and international collaboration for institutional and academic development.”
A reporter conducting an interview with Pro Rector Dr Omar Kyaw about the AUA-UY Academic Conference 2018
