In today's world, the challenges of environmental sustainability and social development require integrated and innovative approaches to management. As businesses increasingly focus on their impact on the environment and society, the demand for professionals with knowledge of environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles continues to grow. However, in Central Asia, the integration of ESG into higher education and the labour market remains limited.
The ESGCA Erasmus project aims to modernise and enhance environmental education by developing and introducing a Master's programme in ESG as well as new micro-credit courses covering important topics such as climate change, nature conservation, sustainable development and natural resource management. This initiative, implemented in 10 universities in Central Asia, will train highly qualified specialists in the field of sustainable environmental and social management, equipping them with interdisciplinary knowledge and the necessary soft skills required in today's labour market.
Sustainable development education should be practice-oriented and highly interactive, fostering entrepreneurial thinking, leadership, risk management and innovative problem solving. To bridge the gap between academia and industry, the ESGCA project will incorporate stakeholder collaboration, real-life case studies and research-based innovation into the learning process.
By strengthening the capacity of universities in Central Asia and aligning academic programmes with labour market requirements, the project will contribute to the creation of green jobs, environmentally responsible business and sustainable economic growth. In addition to launching a new Master's programme, ESGCA will develop specialised training programmes for civil servants at the Presidential Academies of Public Administration, ensuring that sustainable development principles are embedded in public policy and corporate governance practices.
Through academic excellence, collaboration with industry and engagement with policy makers, the ESGCA project represents a transformational model for sustainable growth and employment in Central Asia, preparing future leaders to meet the environmental and social challenges of the 21st century.