The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has unveiled the ‘1 Million Learners’ initiative as part of its broader DIFC Sustainable Finance Catalyst programme. This ambitious initiative seeks to equip one million individuals with knowledge in sustainability and sustainable finance by 2030, marking a significant step in advancing environmental and social responsibility. The announcement was made during the Dubai FinTech Summit, hosted by DIFC at Madinat Jumeirah.
Strengthening Sustainability Education for a Resilient Future
The initiative comes at a time when economies are increasingly integrating sustainability into their growth models, highlighting the need for widespread understanding of sustainable finance. DIFC’s ‘1 Million Learners’ aims to build inclusive, resilient societies by empowering individuals with the skills and knowledge to contribute to global sustainability efforts.
Arif Amiri, CEO of DIFC Authority, stressed the initiative’s importance, saying, “DIFC is proud to be leading the way in advancing sustainability in the region. The ‘1 Million Learners’ initiative is a testament to our belief that real impact begins with education. By working closely with our valued partners, we are making sustainability knowledge more accessible and ensuring the region remains at the forefront of global sustainable transformation.”
Coalition of Partners to Drive Knowledge and Impact
The initiative is backed by a diverse coalition of 28 founding partners, including leading organizations across various sectors. Key partners such as AICPA & CIMA, Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership, Clean Energy Business Council, CFA Institute, and Expo City Dubai share a commitment to advancing sustainability education.
In collaboration with these partners, DIFC aims to redefine how sustainability education is delivered at scale, preparing the next generation of professionals to drive meaningful, sustainable change.
Measuring Success Through Impact Evaluation
To ensure measurable outcomes, DIFC has appointed GIST Impact as its impact partner. With over 17 years of experience in assessing environmental, social, and economic outcomes, GIST Impact’s science-based methodologies align with global frameworks, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The partnership will focus on evaluating the initiative’s impact and communicating progress effectively.
GIST Impact’s expertise in translating social outcomes into measurable insights will help ensure that the ‘1 Million Learners’ initiative delivers tangible benefits, especially in underserved regions, by providing access to education, equity, and improved livelihoods.
