Planning Water and Sanitation Infrastructure in Developing Countries

Access to clean water and safe sanitation is one of the most critical challenges facing developing nations today. Designing effective infrastructure requires more than engineering; it demands a deep understanding of local policy, economics, and community needs. This course equips you with the fundamental knowledge to plan, analyze, and implement sustainable water and sanitation systems. You will transition from understanding basic public health requirements to evaluating complex socio-technical infrastructure solutions. What you'll learn: 1. Understand the core technical, social, and economic factors driving water and sanitation planning. 2. Analyze the challenges of urban and rural water supply systems in developing regions. 3. Evaluate decentralized and nature-based sanitation solutions alongside traditional centralized systems. 4. Incorporate climate-resilient practices and sustainable resource management into infrastructure design. 5. Assess financial models, community-led management frameworks, and policy structures for long-term viability. We begin with key terminology, public health foundations, and historical context before exploring technical planning methodologies. Through written case analyses and practical planning scenarios, you will learn how to design adaptable, community-centered infrastructure. This course is designed for beginners, aspiring urban planners, international development workers, and public health advocates, with no prior engineering or planning experience required. Start reading today to build the foundational skills needed to address global water and sanitation challenges.