IASE Africa Launches the Ubuntu ESG Access Bursary to Expand Sustainable Economy Skills Across Africa

Johannesburg, Gauteng Dec 20, 2025 (EMWNews.com) – IASE Africa NPC, the Africa regional chapter of the International Association for Sustainable Economy (IASE Global, London, UK), has officially launched the Ubuntu ESG Access Bursary, a flagship initiative designed to expand access to internationally recognised ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) certifications across Africa.

The bursary aims to support emerging professionals, public-sector leaders, youth, and community practitioners who are committed to building Africa’s sustainable future but face financial barriers to accessing formal ESG education.

“Africa needs more ESG-literate professionals to meet the demands of modern governance, climate transitions, ethical leadership, and sustainable development. The Ubuntu ESG Access Bursary is our contribution toward ensuring that cost is not a barrier to entering this critical field,” said Godfrey Nti, Vice President of IASE Global and Chairperson of IASE Africa NPC.

Partial Funding Designed for Impact and Affordability
The Ubuntu ESG Access Bursary provides partial financial support, enabling recipients to begin their ESG certification pathway through the ISB ADVISOR® or ISF ADVISOR® certification programs (Level 1). Most bursary awards fall between 20% and 50% of the total program fees — typically between R3,000 and R8,500 ( USD 160 – USD 450) depending on financial need, application strength, and available funding.

Awards support three specific components of the ESG certification journey:
1. IASE-endorsed online ESG training (for Level 1 ISB ADVISOR® or ISF ADVISOR®)
2. IASE Global Board Exam registration fees (ISB ADVISOR® or ISF ADVISOR®)
3. First-time IASE Global joining (membership application) fee
The bursary does not cover optional study tools, resit fees, or non-essential administrative costs.

Why the Ubuntu ESG Access Bursary Matters
Across public institutions, companies, NGOs, and community organisations, there is a rapidly growing demand for ESG skills. Yet access to credible, globally benchmarked ESG certification remains limited for many African professionals.

With this bursary, IASE Africa seeks to:
Expand access to affordable ESG tuition
Increase the number of certified ESG practitioners across the continent
Support Africa’s transition to a more ethical, resilient, and sustainable economy
Identify and nurture emerging ESG talent in underserved communities
Strengthening Africa’s representation in global ESG leadership

First Application Window Now Open
The inaugural bursary window opens on 2 December 2025 and closes on 4 January 2026 at 11 am SAST. Applicants will be notified of the outcome between 7 January and 14 January 2026.

Successful applicants will join the next IASE Africa learning cohort beginning 26 January 2026.
Submissions received after 4 January will automatically roll into the next review cycle.

Who Should Apply?
The bursary is targeted at:
Early- and mid-career professionals across Africa
Applicants working in public institutions, NGOs, social enterprises, or grassroots initiatives
Individuals without employer sponsorship
Applicants with demonstrated financial need
Young professionals and recent graduates pursuing ESG careers

Unemployed professionals and those from community-based organisations are strongly encouraged to apply.

Selection & Evaluation Process
All applications are reviewed by the IASE Africa Bursary Committee using a holistic and fair assessment framework that evaluates:
Demonstrated financial need
Motivation and commitment to the ESG field

Potential for community, organisational, or sectoral impact
Alignment with IASE values of ethics, equity, and excellence
All decisions of the Committee are final and not subject to appeal.

Strengthening Africa’s ESG Pipeline
“This initiative is designed not only to provide financial support, but to build long-term ESG capacity across African industries and sectors. We are committed to developing the next generation of sustainable economy leaders,” said Johan Aucamp, Board member, IASE Africa.
IASE Africa also invites corporates, foundations, and development partners to collaborate on future bursary schemes, including women-in-leadership bursaries, youth-focused funds, and sector-specific ESG sponsorships.

How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official portal
Full bursary Terms & Conditions are available
For more information, contact: [email protected]

About IASE Africa
IASE Africa is the regional chapter of the International Association for Sustainable Economy (IASE Global), the global professional body responsible for setting ESG competency standards, certification requirements, and continuing professional development for ESG practitioners worldwide. IASE Africa supports responsible leadership, ethical governance, and excellence in sustainability across the continent.

To learn more about:
a) IASE Africa: https://iase.co.za
b) IASE Global: https://iase-certifications.com
c) Ubuntu ESG Access Bursary: https://iase.co.za/ubuntu/