IASE Africa Introduces Ubuntu ESG Access Bursary to Broaden Sustainable Economy Expertise Across Africa

Johannesburg, Gauteng Dec 20, 2025  – IASE Africa NPC, the African regional branch of the International Association for Sustainable Economy (IASE Global, London, UK), has officially launched the Ubuntu ESG Access Bursary. This key initiative is designed to broaden access to internationally recognized ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) certifications throughout Africa.

The bursary aims to assist aspiring professionals, public sector leaders, young individuals, and community practitioners who are dedicated to fostering Africa’s sustainable future but encounter financial obstacles to formal ESG education.

“Africa requires a greater number of ESG-proficient professionals to address the demands of contemporary governance, climate transitions, ethical leadership, and sustainable development. The Ubuntu ESG Access Bursary represents our contribution to ensuring that financial constraints do not impede entry into this vital field,” stated Godfrey Nti, Vice President of IASE Global and Chairperson of IASE Africa NPC.

Partial Funding Tailored for Impact and Affordability
The Ubuntu ESG Access Bursary offers partial financial assistance, enabling recipients to commence their ESG certification journey through the ISB ADVISOR® or ISF ADVISOR® certification programs (Level 1). Most bursary awards range from 20% to 50% of the total program fees, typically between R3,000 and R8,500 (USD 160 – USD 450), contingent upon financial need, the strength of the application, and available funding.

Awards are allocated to three specific aspects of the ESG certification process:
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 materials, fees for retaking exams, or non-essential administrative expenses.

Significance of the Ubuntu ESG Access Bursary
There is a rapidly escalating demand for ESG expertise across public institutions, corporations, NGOs, and community organizations. However, access to credible, globally recognized ESG certification remains restricted for many African professionals.

Through this bursary, IASE Africa intends to:
Enhance access to affordable ESG education
Increase the number of certified ESG practitioners continent-wide
Support Africa’s transition towards a more ethical, resilient, and sustainable economy
Identify and cultivate emerging ESG talent in underserved communities
Strengthen Africa’s presence in global ESG leadership

First Application Period Now Open
The initial bursary application window opens on December 2, 2025, and concludes on January 4, 2026, at 11 am SAST. Applicants will be informed of the results between January 7 and January 14, 2026.

Successful candidates will join the subsequent IASE Africa learning cohort, commencing on January 26, 2026.
Applications submitted after January 4 will automatically be considered in the next review cycle.

Eligibility for Application
The bursary is intended for:
Early- and mid-career professionals throughout Africa
Applicants employed by public institutions, NGOs, social enterprises, or grassroots initiatives
Individuals without employer sponsorship
Applicants demonstrating financial need
Young professionals and recent graduates pursuing careers in ESG

Unemployed professionals and those affiliated with community-based organizations are strongly encouraged to apply.

Selection and Evaluation Process
All applications are reviewed by the IASE Africa Bursary Committee, employing a comprehensive and equitable assessment framework that considers:
Demonstrated financial need
Motivation and commitment to the ESG field

Potential for impact at the community, organizational, or sectoral level
Alignment with IASE’s core values of ethics, equity, and excellence
All decisions made by the Committee are final and not subject to appeal.

Bolstering Africa’s ESG Capacity
“This initiative is designed not only to offer financial support but also to build enduring ESG capacity across African industries and sectors. We are committed to developing the next generation of leaders in the sustainable economy,” remarked Johan Aucamp, Board member, IASE Africa.
IASE Africa also extends an invitation to corporations, foundations, and development partners to collaborate on future bursary programs, including those focused on women in leadership, youth empowerment, and sector-specific ESG sponsorships.

Application Procedure
Applications must be submitted online.
Full details are available on the IASE Africa website.
For further information, please contact: bursary@iase.co.za

About IASE Africa
IASE Africa serves as the regional chapter of the International Association for Sustainable Economy (IASE Global). It is the global professional body responsible for establishing ESG competency standards, certification requirements, and ongoing professional development for ESG practitioners worldwide. IASE Africa champions responsible leadership, ethical governance, and excellence in sustainability across the African 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/