In today’s fast-paced and dynamic world, knowledge and skills are the keys to success. The digital age has opened a plethora of opportunities for free learning, which is proving to be a game-changer for people and organizations worldwide.
In this article, I bring you a curated list of high-quality and cost-free learning courses on the topics of impact, sustainable development, UN SDGs, social entrepreneurship, international cooperation, and more.
1- AGENCE FRANÇAISE DE DÉVELOPPEMENT – CAMPUS AFD
Campus AFD is a laboratory for pedagogical innovation, which designs and develops training courses tailored to the skills needs of those involved in sustainable development projects and policies in AFD’s intervention countries. The Campus AFD offers high-impact digital formats, including MOOCs, SPOCs, webinars, video capsules, games, which may or may not lead to a qualification or certification These courses are co-constructed with partners and aim to strengthen the skills of women and men who want to transform themselves to transform the world.
In particular, the initiative involves training courses that use innovative teaching methods to support:
- The acquisition of multidisciplinary and systemic knowledge to understand the revolutions at work and the major transitions towards sustainable development.
- A new way of looking at the world.
- Strengthening technical knowledge.
- Stimulating 21st century skills.
- Networking and participation in communities.
Main themes: territorial, ecological and energy transition, climate and biodiversity, project management for development, transformation of people and organizations, complexity of contemporary challenges and sustainable development.
Link: https://mooc-campus.afd.fr/course/index.php
Language: available in French, Spanish, and English.
Suggested courses:
- Suivi et Évaluation d’un projet de développement
- Passer d’une idée de projet à un cadre logique : outils et démarches
- MOOC Genre et Développement
2- ACUMEN ACADEMY – A UNIVERSITY REIMAGINED
Acumen Academy is an organization that offers courses and programs focused on social impact and leadership development. Its mission is to serve a community of social innovators and builders who are willing to embrace the challenge of solving the world’s toughest problems by providing the practical tools, practices and resources needed to create new solutions for an interdependent world.
Course content may include real-world case studies of successful social enterprises and initiatives, allowing learners to gain insights from practical examples. Acumen Academy fosters a strong sense of community among its participants. Learners have opportunities to interact with fellow students, instructors, and Acumen’s global network of social change leaders. Upon successful completion of certain programs or courses, participants may receive certificates, recognizing their commitment to social impact and leadership development.
Acumen Academy‘s approach is rooted in the belief that solving complex social problems requires not only technical expertise but also a deep understanding of human behavior and the ability to lead with empathy. By offering accessible and high-quality learning opportunities, Acumen Academy aims to empower individuals to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
Main themes: social entrepreneurship, leadership development, business strategy, financial management, fundraising, impact measurement, theory of change, storytelling, and branding for nonprofit organizations.
Link: https://acumenacademy.org/courseCatalog/
Language: available in English.
Suggested courses:
3- UN SDG:LEARN
The UN SDG Learning Platform is an educational initiative developed by the United Nations to promote awareness, understanding, and implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UN SDG:Learn brings relevant and curated learning solutions on sustainable development topics to individuals and organizations.
Through the collaborative efforts of the United Nations, multilateral organizations, and partners from universities, civil society, academia and the private sector, UN SDG:Learn provides a unique gateway that empowers individuals and organizations through a wide array of courses related to each of the 17 SDGs.
These courses cover topics such as poverty eradication, quality education, clean energy, climate action, gender equality, sustainable cities, responsible consumption, and more. Some courses offer certification upon successful completion, recognizing the learners’ commitment to understanding and contributing to the SDGs.
Link: https://www.unsdglearn.org/learning/
Language: several languages available.
Suggested courses:
- Sustainable Lifestyles
- Strengthening stakeholder engagement for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda
- Beyond smart cities equals “Smart for all”
4- THAT’S AI FROM EPFL – EXPLORING THE FASCINATING WORLD OF AI
That’s AI is a very interesting introduction course to the world’s most important technological development. You will find out how AI is transforming everything around us and learn how to become an active participant in this exciting new world.
Link: https://www.thats-ai.org/en-GB
Language: available in French and English.
Continuous learning throughout our lives offers significant advantages for our mental well-being. Engaging in new challenges and educational experiences has the added benefit of reducing stress and anxiety, instilling a sense of achievement and direction. Education remains at the core of human progress.
Embracing the pursuit of lifelong learning goes beyond its pragmatic advantages; it enriches and expands our lives.
Written by Christiane Leao Ferreira
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