Global South Academic Conclave
on WASH and Climate 2025
21st - 23rd February, 2025 • CFP Building, CEPT University, Ahmedabad
The Center for Water and Sanitation at CEPT University organized the second edition of the Global South Academic Conclave on WASH and Climate in February, 2025. The first edition in 2024 was a success, where 350 participants from across 30 countries joined us at the CEPT University campus for valuable discussions on the linkages between WASH and climate resilience.
We continued these discussions at the Global South Academic Conclave 2025 from 21st – 23rd February 2025 at the CEPT campus in Ahmedabad. The conclave was organised in collaboration with the Faculty of Planning - CEPT University with support from the Viega Foundation and Gates Foundation.
The second edition of the GSAC focused on themes of WASH monitoring, governance and finance. The first day of the conclave also celebrated 15 years of the PAS project - the online system for urban WASH performance assessment in India. The conclave is visualised as a cross-learning event among sector partners, academia and researchers.
1250+
in-person and virtual attendees
120+
speakers and presenters
30+
countries represented
250+
organizations represented
GSAC 2025 - Conclave Proceedings
Thematic areas
Monitoring WASH and climate
To showcase systems, policies and strategies for measuring and monitoring WASH outcomes in different countries.
Governance for inclusive and climate resilient WASH
To discuss the political, social, economic and administrative systems that influence WASH services and resultant impacts on equity and climate resilience.
Financing climate resilient WASH
To highlight and assess conventional and innovative financing models for WASH services from a climate resilience lens, discussing potential and challenges.
WASH innovations in technology and service delivery
To showcase innovations in WASH services management through technology, government programmes, community engagement, improved administration.
Celebrating PAS@15
The Performance Assessment System (PAS), initiated in 2009 by CWAS, CEPT University, has transformed urban water and sanitation monitoring in India. Over 15 years, PAS has grown into one of India’s most comprehensive databases, tracking service levels across 800+ cities and covering 115 million people. By aligning with national programs like AMRUT and Swachh Bharat Mission, PAS has enabled evidence-based policymaking, performance benchmarking, and service improvements at city, state, and national levels. Explore 15 years of PAS innovations and insights.
Speakers
Field visit
Ahmedabad Heritage Walk
Fee - 1500/- INR | 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM. (Make sure your return flight is scheduled post 3PM IST, otherwise do not opt for this option)
Discover the charm of Ahmedabad through its "Heritage Walk", where history comes alive in the heart of the old city. Founded in 1411 on the ancient sites of Ashaval and Karnavati, Ahmedabad is a blend of rich Islamic, Hindu, and Jain architectural marvels. As you stroll through the narrow lanes, you'll encounter intricately carved wooden houses, exquisite temples, and some of India's finest monuments. A highlight of the walk is the experience of the unique pols—self-contained neighbourhoods designed for community living, with gates, secret passages, and cozy cul-de-sacs. These centuries-old streets are dotted with community wells and chabutaras for feeding birds, reflecting the city's vibrant culture and traditions. Join the Heritage Walk to immerse yourself in Ahmedabad's timeless beauty and uncover its stories, art, and architectural wonders.
Modhera Sun Temple
Fee - 2000/- INR | 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM. (Make sure your return flight is scheduled post 8PM IST, otherwise do not opt for this option)
The Modhera Sun Temple, located in the village of Modhera in Gujarat, is a stunning architectural marvel dedicated to the Sun God, Surya. Built in the 11th century during the Chola dynasty, this temple is renowned for its intricate design and grandeur. It is uniquely positioned to align with the sun's rays, which illuminate the temple’s sanctum during the equinox. Visiting the Modhera Sun Temple offers a chance to step back in time and experience the ancient reverence for the Sun God, while admiring the temple's breathtaking architecture and the scenic beauty surrounding it.
Organizers
