WASANet used the annual WaterNet Symposium to convene an intensive two-week training beforehand, in collaboration with WaterNet. The training was attended by 40 emerging scholars from several SADC countries. The University of Zambia, in particular, Prof Kawawa Banda co-hosted the training.

Dr Nico Elema at the AUDA-NEPAD SANWATCE Secretariat presented on Science Diplomacy in the Water Sector. Prof Cosmo Ngongondo at the University of Malawi taught on Scientific Paper Writing, while Dr Marelize Botes at the Stellenbosch University Water Institute presented on Case Studies on Contaminants of Emerging Concern: Innovations in Effect-Based Impact Assessment on Environmental and Human Health and Removal Technologies.