New water program blends modern and traditional knowledge in the APY lands

More than 2000 residents are part of a new program, and it’s blending ‘cutting edge technology’ with some of the ‘world’s oldest water stories’. FREE READ.

The Anangu Water Wisdom program, delivered in partnership with SA Water and Atira Group, is running in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankuntjatjara (APY) Lands. Picture: Supplied

Some of the world’s “oldest water stories” are being interlinked with “cutting-edge technology” – and it’s seeking to benefit more than 2000 people who live in a 103000 sqkm area.

Running in the Australia’s Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankuntjatjara (APY) Lands, SA Water has partnered with Atira Group, an education provider, to deliver the Anangu Water Wisdom program.

SA Water brand and community connection manager Kellie MacDonald said the new program “recognises this remote region holds some of the world’s oldest water stories”.

“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,” she said.

The Anangu Water Wisdom program, delivered in partnership with SA Water and Atira Group, is running in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankuntjatjara (APY) Lands. Picture: Supplied

APY lands are located in the north of South Australia, but the communities — such as the Anangu — have a strong connection with the Territory.

Ms McDonald said Anangu Water Wisdom was built on the principle of ngapartji ngapartji, a Pitjantjatjara term for reciprocity.

The Anangu are the traditional owners of Uluru, but are also part of one of the 13 communities which cover an 103,000 sqkm area.

“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,” Ms McDonald said.

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

“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.”

Originally published as New water program blends modern and traditional knowledge in the APY lands