In the past months, a series of Groundwater Serious Game workshops were conducted in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam, specifically in Soc Trang and Ben Tre provinces, as well as at Can Tho University. These workshops, hosted by The Water Agency in collaboration with Can Tho University, Deltares, and other key partners, aimed to enhance understanding and awareness of groundwater management through interactive learning and community engagement.
The Serious Game simulates the complexities of groundwater use and management in the Mekong Delta. Participants, including farmers, students, and water experts, took on roles that challenged them to balance water resources across different zones, addressing issues like declining groundwater levels, saltwater intrusion, and land subsidence. Through five game rounds, players made critical decisions on water use, irrigation, and conservation efforts.
Key Insights
The workshops encouraged collaborative problem-solving, with participants realizing the importance of cooperation among water users. In particular, farmers from Ben Tre and Soc Trang shared how the game made them aware of how their individual water-use decisions contribute to broader issues like water scarcity and sustainability. The interactive approach proved highly effective compared to traditional methods, as participants were able to visualize the long-term impacts of over-extraction and other groundwater-related challenges. Practical solutions such as water-saving techniques and infrastructure improvements were also emphasized, providing participants with actionable insights into sustainable water management.
Feedback from the sessions reflected how participants gained a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding groundwater management in the Mekong Delta. The game also illustrated how crucial it is for communities to work together in addressing these challenges, with many participants expressing a desire for continued engagement on the topic.
The insights gathered from these workshops will inform future activities aimed at developing collaborative solutions for water sustainability in the Mekong Delta.
Learn more about the project here.
