Irrigation Design, Performance Assessment and Modernisation

This course provides an in-depth, interdisciplinary approach to assessing and modernizing irrigation schemes. Participants will learn how to evaluate system performance, understand the rationale for modernization, and redesign irrigation schemes that are technically sound, socially equitable, and economically viable.

The course combines theoretical sessions with hands-on exercises and a central case study. Students begin by assessing the performance of an irrigation scheme, analyzing data within the context of equity, sustainability, and local realities. Each participant adopts a specific stakeholder perspective—such as a government agency, NGO, or international organization—to appreciate the diverse interests that shape modernization programs. Through interactive engagement with peers, participants explore trade-offs and synergies in making complex technical, social, political, and economic decisions.

The course addresses common challenges in irrigation systems, including design flaws, operational and maintenance issues, and socio-political dynamics that affect long-term sustainability. Unlike traditional irrigation courses, which often treat social and organizational factors as secondary, this course integrates technical design with stakeholder perspectives, farmer diversity, gender considerations, land rights, and cultural contexts.