In a powerful step towards fostering a greener future, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has launched an ambitious program called the “One Million Learners” initiative. The goal? To empower one million people with essential knowledge about sustainability and sustainable finance by the year 2030.
The announcement was made during the Dubai FinTech Summit, held at Madinat Jumeirah, where leaders gathered to discuss the future of finance and innovation. For DIFC, this new initiative is more than just a milestone — it’s a long-term commitment to blending economic growth with environmental and social responsibility.
Why This Matters
Sustainability is no longer a choice; it’s a necessity. As industries and economies worldwide pivot towards greener practices, understanding sustainable finance becomes critical. DIFC’s initiative aims to bridge this knowledge gap, making sure individuals and businesses alike are equipped for the transition.
“We believe real change begins with education,” said Arif Amiri, CEO of DIFC Authority. “Through this initiative, we’re working to ensure that sustainability knowledge is within everyone’s reach. It’s about preparing our communities, our industries, and our region to lead in the global shift towards a sustainable future.”
A Global Collaboration for a Global Challenge
The initiative is backed by a formidable coalition of 28 founding partners, each bringing expertise from various sectors. This includes renowned names like AICPA, CIMA, CFA Institute, Mastercard, S&P Global, UNDP, and many more. Together, these partners will contribute to creating learning platforms, tools, and resources to make sustainability education accessible to all.
Their involvement underscores a shared vision: building inclusive, resilient communities that can thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Measuring Impact, Not Just Numbers
To ensure that the “One Million Learners” initiative achieves real, measurable outcomes, DIFC has teamed up with GIST Impact, a global leader in sustainability impact assessment. With nearly two decades of experience, GIST Impact will help DIFC track the initiative’s social, economic, and environmental results.
Using international frameworks like the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), CSRD, and TNFD, this partnership will go beyond mere participation numbers. The focus will be on translating educational reach into tangible benefits — such as improved access to opportunities, promoting equality, and supporting livelihoods, especially in underserved communities.
Looking Ahead: Education as a Catalyst for Change
By launching “One Million Learners,” DIFC is setting a new benchmark for how financial hubs can lead the sustainability conversation, not just in business but within society as a whole.
This is not a corporate campaign. It’s a vision for the future — where informed individuals drive meaningful change, and where the region takes a leading role in the global sustainability movement.
As the world continues to navigate environmental and economic challenges, initiatives like this demonstrate that education is the first and most crucial step towards building a better tomorrow.
