The International Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Foundation (IWSH) announces its annual IWSH Scholarship Essay Contest, challenging students to examine how government and private sector collaboration can accelerate access to safe drinking water.

This year's topic asks high school seniors and post-secondary students to consider: "Why should the government and private sector come together to provide improved access to clean drinking water?" The contest typically draws over 200 entries from students worldwide, reflecting IWSH’s global reach.

"Through this essay contest, we're connecting with young people who understand that clean water changes lives," said Sean Kearney, IWSH managing director. "We want students to think about how partnerships can solve real problems.  

With more than 2 billion people globally lacking access to safely managed drinking water and millions in the U.S. without basic plumbing, IWSH brings together skilled plumbers, quality products, and community training to create lasting change.

“These fresh perspectives help us show that modern plumbing is more than just fixing leaks,” said Gaby Davis, chief administrative officer of IAPMO, the parent organization of IWSH. “It's about building healthier communities and opening career paths that make a difference."

The contest welcomes entries from high school seniors, students in technical schools, community colleges, trade programs, and undergraduates at four-year institutions. One first-place winner will receive a $2,000 scholarship, and three second-place winners will each receive $1,000. Winners also have their work published in IAPMO's Official magazine, putting their ideas in front of industry leaders throughout the sector.

The Sandra Imprescia Essay Scholarship Committee reviews the submissions to determine the top four, recommending the winning essays to IWSH's Board of Trustees. Winners will be announced this Fall.
 
The entry deadline is April 30, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time. For more information or to submit an entry, visit iwsh.org/iwsh-world-plumbing-day-essay-contest.