Integrating Experiential Learning Programs for a Sustainable Water Future and Climate Resilience: A Comparative Analysis

The study addresses the need for interdisciplinary, hands-on, community-engaged learning models to tackle climate-driven water challenges. Traditional education is often inadequate in equipping young water professionals with the necessary practical, interdisciplinary competencies required to address these complex issues through integrative, real-world experiences. Two international experiential learning platforms, the Wetskills Water Challenges and ClimateCafé, have emerged as valuable approaches to bridge this gap by engaging students and young professionals in direct community collaboration and evidencebased problem-solving. This study explores how these complementary programmes can be strategically integrated to improve climate resilience research, enhance stakeholder engagement, and promote youth capacity development in the water sector.