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03 February 2026  |  19 May 2026

Water Law

Applications accepted until
03 February 2026
Short Course Coordinator:
Maria Matsoso
Accreditation:
Certificate of Competence and Certificate of Attendance
Course dates
03 February 2026 - 19 May 2026
Applications close
03 February 2026
Overview
This course provides a critical and interdisciplinary exploration of South Africa's raw water governance system, examining the legal, policy, institutional, and constitutional frameworks that shape water management. Students engage with transformative themes such as equity, sustainability, environmental justice, and the water-energy-food nexus while analysing state custodianship, ecological integrity, and international obligations. The course also addresses regulatory tools for allocating scarce water resources, including licensing, pricing, and infrastructure planning. Through rigorous study of the National Water Act and related mechanisms, participants develop the skills to evaluate, interpret, and apply water law to complex and evolving challenges. A quality-assured certificate from the University of the Witwatersrand is issued on successful completion.
Duration
14 Weeks
Format
1.5-hour weekly lectures
Pricing
VAT Incl. = R20,100.00

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Please complete the following info:

    The course content addresses the following topics:


    • Rights to water in South Africa in perspective
    • Public trusteeship of water resources: National Water Act, 1996
    • Statutory water institutions
    • Equity and sustainability principles in water governance, and the reserve
    • Water resources and international obligations
    • Stautory duty of care: Section 19 of the National Water Act, 1996
    • Water use licensing (uses authorised under Schedule 1, uses in terms of general authorisation, individual and compulsory licensing, and existing water uses)
    • Licensing and the water-energy-food nexus
    • Water as ecological infrastructure: wetlands and strategic water areas
    • Infrastructure, economics, and pricing for water services
    • Facing the water crisis
    • Appeals to the Water Tribunal
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