Oclaya Verwey
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellow, 2024-25
- Home country: Suriname
- Specialization: Water resources/groundwater availability; integrated water resources management; climate change and water resources
- Current role: Hydrogeologist and Researcher, Anton de Kom University of Suriname
- Education: Bachelors of Science in Geosciences, Anton de Kom University of Suriname; Master of Science in Hydrology and Water Resources Engineering, IHE-Delft
- Connect: osv4 [at] cornell.edu (Email)
- Pronouns: she/her
Oclaya Sophia Verwey is a dedicated water resources expert with over 8 years of experience in the water sector, including drinking water supply and research. Driven by her belief that “Water is my world, my passion, and my driving force,” Oclaya focuses on groundwater resources, particularly in coastal areas. She is a researcher at Anton de Kom University of Suriname, where she investigates shallow coastal aquifers and their potential for community water supply and irrigation. Her work aims to provide practical solutions for water challenges faced by rural coastal communities and farmers during dry seasons.
In addition to her research, Oclaya serves as a part-time lecturer in Geography at the Teachers Academy and freelances at the Children’s University, where she teaches courses about water resources. Her research findings are expected to lead to practical implementations regarding water supply in rural coastal communities and benefit farmers who face irrigation challenges during dry seasons.
Oclaya is actively involved in the water community and serves as the in-country Youth Focal Point for the Global Water Partnership Caribbean for Suriname. She is passionate about educating people on sustainable water use and the importance of understanding water resources. Her commitment to making a positive impact in the field of water resources drives her to continuously seek innovative solutions and engage with the community.