uMngeni-uThukela Water (UUW), in partnership with the Water Institute of Southern Africa (WISA), hosted the inaugural KZN Process Controller Day at the Durban ICC under the theme “Empowered Process Controllers – Guardians of Our Water Future.”

The event brought together process controllers, engineers, scientists, young practitioners and water sector stakeholders from across South Africa to recognise the vital role Process Controllers play in protecting public health, maintaining water quality and ensuring the reliable operation of water and wastewater treatment facilities.

Opening the conference, UUW chairperson Adv. Khuzwayo and WISA CEO Dr. Lester Goldman paid tribute to the dedication and professionalism of process controllers, describing them as the frontline custodians of water quality and environmental protection. The keynote address, “The Backbone of Water Security – The Process Controller’s Role in Sustainable Water Management”, reinforced the need for continued investment in skills development, operational excellence and innovation.

Over two days, delegates participated in technical presentations, workshops, panel discussions and knowledge-sharing sessions focused on strengthening professional development and improving operational performance. Discussions highlighted the critical contribution process controllers make to treatment efficiency, regulatory compliance and the delivery of safe drinking water.

Technology and innovation featured prominently throughout the programme. A session on smart monitoring tools and data interpretation encouraged delegates to embrace digital technologies and data-driven decision-making to optimise plant performance. Another presentation explored how process controllers can move beyond operating plants to become innovators and problem-solvers who drive improvements in wastewater treatment and sanitation.

Climate resilience was another key focus. Delegates examined how changing raw water quality and increasingly unpredictable weather patterns are affecting treatment processes and discussed the essential role process controllers play in maintaining reliable services under challenging conditions. The conference also reinforced the importance of implementing Regulation 3630 and maintaining high standards across water and wastewater treatment facilities.

Interactive panel discussions and question-and-answer sessions provided a platform for delegates to share operational experiences, discuss challenges and exchange practical solutions. These conversations promoted collaboration, mentorship and peer learning while encouraging the next generation of Process Controllers to pursue leadership opportunities within the sector.

Beyond the technical programme, exhibition stands and networking sessions enabled delegates to engage with technology providers, industry partners and sector leaders, creating valuable opportunities for collaboration.

The event concluded with a gala dinner and process controller excellence awards, celebrating outstanding achievements across categories including best rural/urban plant process controller, innovation in operations, outstanding young process controller, women in water leadership and lifetime achievement. The awards recognised the dedication and expertise of process controllers whose work is fundamental to delivering safe, reliable water services to communities.

The inaugural KZN Process Controller Day reinforced the importance of professionalisation, innovation, mentorship and continuous learning within South Africa’s water sector. Through initiatives such as these, UUW and WISA continue to strengthen the profession and invest in the people who safeguard one of the country’s most essential resources.

Congratulations to all the award winners and to every process controller whose commitment ensures communities receive safe, quality drinking water every day.