Education will be essential for effective water management. Programmes dealing with education, training and the creation of environmental and water use awareness should be introduced on all levels. The concept was introduced in 1994 in the general environmental policy GN51/94 where guidelines for environmental education are provided.

Wetlands provide ideal areas for education (A White Paper on the conservation and sustainable use of South Africa's biological diversity).

Training and education must be provided to ensure participation in protected area management (adjacent areas).

The risks posed by planting or illegal importation of alien species must be improved through public education and awareness. Public education and awareness concerning the risks and benefits of biotechnology, including genetically modified organisms, must also be improved.

The Minister may, upon agreement with a land owner, perform any act for the purpose of public demonstration or for research in any matter relating to veld, soil or water conservation. (Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act )

Government support should be provided for the education of small-scale miners on environmental management (views of small-scale miners; A Minerals and Mining Policy for South Africa).