Baden-Württemberg Scholarship for University Collaborations (BWS plus)

The “WATER” project is an international collaboration between Hochschule Offenburg and the University of Mauritius. The focus is on developing new methods to detect water losses in distribution networks at an early stage and thus use water resources more efficiently.
Joint degree programs, research projects, workshops, and hands-on training promote the exchange of knowledge and prepare students for future careers in the field of water supply technology.

One of the project’s goals is to conduct research on water leak detection, in which modern technologies are further developed and tested in real-world test sites. The findings are directly incorporated into teaching.

Furthermore, the implementation of a joint master’s program with the University of Memphis (UoM) is being explored, which will lead to a specialization in the collaboration between the two Universities and open up new learning and exchange opportunities for students.

Students will benefit from:

• targeted workshops and hands-on sessions,

• mentoring and individual support,

• the development of international and intercultural skills.

The project strengthens scientific collaboration in the long term and enhances the quality of the joint educational programs. At the same time, it improves the career prospects of graduates and helps ensure a supply of skilled workers in the technical field.
The research findings directly benefit the water supply system in Mauritius by training professionals in the use of modern measurement systems and sustainably reducing water losses. The approaches developed can also be applied in other countries.
Furthermore, the project lays the groundwork for further research and industry collaborations and supports several Sustainable Development Goals.

The project places great emphasis on comprehensive support. Students receive assistance through language courses, cultural activities, and personalized support programs designed to help them adjust to their new environment.

The following are particularly important:

• programs such as the buddy system and the Senior Service,

• involvement in ongoing research projects and international teams,

• stays in both countries with hands-on work at test sites.

On-site workshops and virtual meetings strengthen professional exchange and intercultural collaboration. Both universities regularly publish updates on project activities.

This website was created as part of the BWS plus project “WATer IEakage findeR.” The project is funded by the Baden-Württemberg Foundation and is part of the Baden-Württemberg-STIPENDIUM program for university collaborations.