Good hydrological data depends on well-placed stations, correct measurement procedures and an understanding of the water cycle. In August, the Blue Deal launched a blended learning course on hydrology and hydrometry that combines online study with field training for technicians of all three Regional Water Authorities in Mozambique (ARAs) and other key entities.
Introduction to the course
On 3 August 2026, technicians from ARA-Sul, ARA-Centro,IP, ARA-Norte and DNGRH joined the colleagues from the Dutch Water Authorities online to launch the “Introduction to Hydrology and Hydrometry” blended learning course. The kick-off meeting covered the methodology, timeline, and learning platform, as well as providing a brief overview of the planned field activities.
The course is available on the SkillEd platform in both portuguese and english. There are two modules. The first module, Hydrology, covers the water cycle, water resources in Mozambique, and the balance between demand and availability. The second module, Hydrometry, covers measurement methods. Participants completed the Hydrology module in August and the Hydrometry module in September. Each module was followed by a webinar.
Regional mentors and training sites
The practical training will take place in October and November. Each ARA has proposed a senior technician to act as mentor and a regional site for the fieldwork. In this phase, participants will install new hydrometric and rainfall stations, train a local gauge reader, measure discharge with ADCP instruments and a current meter, and process the field data to calculate a water balance. A closing session in November will review the results and lessons learned.
Beyond the course
Once the regional practical sessions finish in November, the practical side of the course will cease. Nonetheless, the online platform will remain active and serve as a resource for future blended courses on introduction in hydrology and or hydrometry, as a resource for other Blue Deal blended learning courses, and as a resource within Mozambique for newly hired staff and any other interested individuals.
The format of online learning, regional mentors and field training on each ARA's own river basins can be used for other technical topics within water management.
We invite you to visit the course. If you have any questions or comments, please send them to courses@bluedeal.co.mz.
