APY Lands students dive into water wisdom with new program

SA Water’s education program Anangu Water Wisdom in schools across South Australia’s Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankuntjatjara (APY) Lands is strengthening the importance of water conservation and sustainability by blending traditional knowledge and an understanding of modern practices.

Developed in partnership with specialised education provider Atria Group, the program is tailored to the unique needs of APY Lands schools and incorporates traditional knowledge with modern water management practices.

Working collaboratively with community, teachers and the Department for Education, the program has been developed over several years to create an authentic two-way learning experience.

SA Water's Manager of Brand and Community Connection Kellie McDonald said Anangu Water Wisdom is built on the principle of ngapartji ngapartji, a Pitjantjatjara term for reciprocity – giving and taking in balance – which aligns with the program’s core focus on sustainability.

“Our new program recognises this remote region holds some of the world’s oldest water stories, passed down through generations,” Kellie said.

“These stories now coexist with cutting-edge technology, and Anangu Water Wisdom values both ensuring we all understand the deep cultural significance of water while learning about how our local systems deliver safe and clean drinking water to their homes.

“With around 2,500 people living across 13 communities across the APY Lands, and spanning an incredibly vast and dry 103,000 square kilometres, ensuring a secure and sustainable water supply is critical to supporting people to continue living on Country.

“Water is precious, particularly in remote areas, and this program is about coming together to create a shared understanding of the value of this vital resource for generations to come.

“Through hands-on activities and interactive workshops, students can explore water through key themes, including Water in My Life, Water in My Community, Healthy Water and Water for the Future, before undertaking a social action project.

“The program will also include excursions to key water infrastructure sites in the APY Lands, giving students a firsthand look at how water is sourced, treated and delivered to their communities.

“Teachers can access the program’s learning resources at any time, with online support available.”
Anangu Water Wisdom is part of SA Water’s commitment to integrating Aboriginal knowledge and culture into its long-term planning and everyday work through the utility’s 2024-27 Reconciliation Action Plan.

“We’re incredibly proud to be working alongside APY Lands communities to deliver this program, and we look forward to having the next generation work with us to provide safe, clean water for the future,” Kellie said.

For more information, visit www.sawater.com.au/education-and-community/education/the-well.

Contact: Tara Miko

Phone: 0448951418

Email: tara.miko@sawater.com.au