Abstract:
Being a vital natural resource, water is both the source of life and an essen-
tial component within all ecosystems. Human progress and societal evolution are
bound with the availability and management of water resources. Sri Lanka, too, has a
rich heritage of self-sustained water management practices. The geological attributes
of this island ensure its ability to maintain a water-rich environment. However, Sri
Lanka is currently facing a substantial water crisis, marked by complex and persistent
issues that have arisen over recent decades a crisis that manifests as water scarcity,
water pollution, and water privatization. Hence, this research focuses on the contem-
porary water crisis in Sri Lanka, tracing its origins to preceding decades and its current
prominence. A key factor in the present crisis is the lack of intergenerational trans-
mission of traditional knowledge, values, and incongruities within development agen-
das. Therefore, the present study explores how to develop an educational paradigm
that fosters sustainable water practices and nurtures a protective relationship with na-
ture among the young generation. Methodologically, the study adopts Joseph
Cardijn's (1887 -1967) "See – Judge – Act" theological research approach, which is
finding solutions and proposals according to the contextual phenomena rooted in
Christian scripture, and tradition effectively. This study focused on bridging the gap
between the prevailing water practices and existing educational paradigms in Sri
Lanka. This research proposes the introduction of an optional academic module that
could bridge the gap between theory and practical implementation while fostering
enduring water stewardship within Sri Lanka. Central to this analysis is the recogni-
tion that the core issues that stem from deficiencies in knowledge dissemination and
educational system design. Consequently, cultivating sustainable water ethics re-
quires a sustained effort to realign attitudes and values that are deep-rooted in Sri
Lanka's water management heritage. The study concludes by making practical recom-
mendations and proposing an optional educational framework to effectively manage
and mitigate the ongoing water crisis. Implementing these measures aims to
strengthen the nexus be-tween theoretical principles and real-world applications by
fostering a harmonious relationship between the populace and their aquatic surround-
ings
