Advancing Technical Expertise: Training on Wastewater Treatment Technologies for Water Utility Managers and Engineers Continues in Tirana

Following the successful launch of Module I: “Regulatory and Financing Aspects of Wastewater.” in April, SHUKALB continued its structured approach to strengthening the wastewater sector with Module II: “Technologies”, held from June 25–27, 2025 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Tirana. This training is part of the broader Capacity Development Program “Introduction to Wastewater Treatment for Managers and Engineers”, implemented under the Regional Capacity Development Network (RCDN) project.

Whereas Module I laid the foundation by focusing on regulatory and financial aspects, including sector policies, institutional frameworks, and financing challenges, Module II delved into the technical core of wastewater treatment systems. With participants from a broad range of regional water and sewerage companies — including those of Korçe, Gjirokaster, Elbasan, Shkoder, Berat, Durres, Vlore, and Fier — as well as national institutions such as the Water Regulatory Authority and the National Agency for Water Supply and Sewerage, the training brought together diverse perspectives and experiences from across the country.

Led by Prof. Enkelejda Gjinali from the Polytechnic University of Tirana and MSc. Ing. Enkelejda Basha from the Regional Water Utility of Durres, the sessions combined theory with practical application. On the first day, participants explored the history and purpose of wastewater treatment, the types of sewage networks, and a comparison between decentralized and centralized systems. These discussions were complemented by real-world examples, videos, interactive group work, and case-based exercises.

Over the three days, the training unfolded to cover:

• Technical elements of wastewater collection, transport, treatment, and discharge
• Design and functionality of treatment plants using nature-based and conventional technologies
• Management of sludge treatment processes
• Concepts related to Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) in urban areas

Each topic was supported by group projects simulating the design of treatment systems tailored to the Albanian context, helping participants apply what they learned directly to real-world scenarios.

This training marks the second of four modules in the eight-day program. The next sessions will continue with infrastructure project management and conclude with a peer exchange on successful wastewater initiatives, further reinforcing inter-institutional collaboration and shared learning.

With high levels of engagement, peer learning, and technical exchange, Module II reaffirmed the critical importance of equipping sector professionals with the knowledge and tools to advance Albania’s water and wastewater services toward a more sustainable future.