WIT at Oxford: Kick-Off Workshop on Water Justice Across Muslim World River Basins

On October 23rd, Dr. Abubakr represented the Centre for Water Informatics and Technology (WIT) at the kick-off workshop held at the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies (OCIS). The workshop marked the launch of a collaborative project between OCIS and WIT titled “Water Justice Across Major River Basins of the Muslim World.”

Focusing on a scoping study of three major river basins – Indus, Nile and Mesopotamia – the project explores how climate change, water inequality, and socio-cultural dynamics intersect in regions experiencing severe water stress. By drawing on institutional economics, environmental history, socio-ecological systems, and hydrological modeling, the study examines historical legacies—from ancient to medieval to colonial periods—across the three cradles of human civilization. It further incorporates Islamic perspectives on water ethics and conservation, along with the role of emerging technologies in advancing equitable water resource management.

The workshop brought together scholars, experts, and scientists working across the three basins. Through discussions with various groups at Oxford, the event established a strong foundation for the project and outlined key pathways and activities for the next phases. The next project activity is scheduled for May 2026.