"China's successful experiences in water resource management and water-saving technologies can provide valuable insights for African countries. Through education and technical training, China-Africa cooperation can enhance the water resource management capabilities of African countries and drive regional sustainable development. This collaboration will not only help Africa and Asia tackle water resource challenges but also contribute to achieving global sustainable development goals," he said.

The research was funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Hydrosphere and Watershed Water Security, and the Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Collaborating institutions included the Southern University of Science and Technology, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Aalto University, the University of Nottingham, 2w2e Environmental Consulting GmbH, Michigan State University and the Laboratory for Climate and Environmental Sciences in France.

Dedicated to publishing scientifically significant and interdisciplinary research of global importance, Nature Communications is one of the most influential and authoritative scientific journals internationally. The publication of Liu's study marks a breakthrough in the research work of NCWU and showcases its influence in the international academic community. It encouraged the university to promote technological innovation and advance the work under the national Double First-Class initiative.

NCWU is located in Zhengzhou, Henan province. It has been rated as the Henan Provincial Distinctive Key University and a Double First-Class university in the province. It now has 68 full-time undergraduate majors, 38 master's degree-granting first-level disciplines, four doctoral degree-granting first-level disciplines, and three centers for postdoctoral studies. NCWU has established friendly cooperative relations with more than 130 overseas universities. It is a member of the World Water Council, a member of the Asia Water Council, a member of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Energy Partnership Network and a European Union talent training partner.