Breaking new ground in sustainability learning
Published date: 21 January 2022
Eight-fold increase in learners using GRI’s online training portal
More than 4,000 sustainability professionals around the world enrolled in courses in 2021 through the GRI Academy, the online platform delivering globally applicable learning opportunities for everyone involved in sustainable development and corporate reporting.
The total number of learners was an eight-fold increase on the previous year, demonstrating how the Academy is responding to the needs of the market and all users of the GRI Standards. Furthermore, almost 500 of these individuals successfully completed the Professional Certification Program, consisting of four courses covering the fundamentals of GRI reporting.
Following the recent revision of the GRI Universal Standards, most of the courses of the Professional Certification Program have been updated to align with the revised standards and to offer the learner improved usability, interactivity and supporting materials.
It is very encouraging that we have seen extensive growth in users of the Academy over the past 12 months, both in terms of people accessing individual courses and those gaining ‘GRI Certified Sustainability Professional’ status. Based on feedback that we received in the first year of the Academy, we are now using different tools and designs. More than ever before, we are putting the learner at the center of our instructional design.
Paul Broekhof, GRI’s Head of Training and CertificationNew and improved curriculum
New and updated courses available on the Academy are:
- Transitioning to the GRI Standards 2021 Update
- Introduction to sustainability reporting and the GRI Standards 2021 update
- Reporting with GRI Standards 2021 update
- Reporting on human rights with GRI Standards 2021 update
The GRI Professional Certification Program refreshed my perspective on sustainability matters. The holistic approach set by the GRI Standards allows to truly capture an organization’s contribution to sustainable development.
Alan Reynolds, Head of Regulation and Energy at Panda Power in IrelandThe GRI Professional Certification Program has helped me improve my reporting skills and generate competitive advantages, creating shared value from a sustainability-based strategy.
Juan José Rebaza, Sustainability Coordinator at Asociación UNACEM in PeruContinued learning to update sustainability skills
The Professional Certification Program is designed to allow individuals to build their knowledge, demonstrate competence in GRI reporting and upskill when needed, resulting in a globally recognized qualification. The program can be completed fully online or in combination with locally delivered training courses through GRI’s network of Certified Training Partners.
Certification can be renewed biennially by completing at least eight hours of continuing education units (CEUs), which provide insights on the latest developments in sustainability reporting and the GRI Standards. Find out further details about the program – including benefits, learning paths, FAQs and more – or access this summary flyer.
Discover today the full range of online courses accessible through the GRI Academy.