Free learning platform delivers practical sustainability tools and climate-smart strategies to drive growth and impact.
By Oke Peter
Johannesburg – Standard Bank has launched the Sustainability Academy, an innovative and comprehensive learning platform aimed at equipping business clients across Africa with actionable sustainability knowledge and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategies.
The Academy addresses a critical need in today’s business environment: while awareness around sustainability is growing, many businesses still lack the practical tools and expertise to implement effective ESG initiatives. With ESG criteria increasingly influencing investment and operational decisions, the new platform provides essential guidance for businesses striving to balance sustainability with growth.
“As one of Africa’s largest financial institutions, we are committed to enabling sustainable economic growth and creating a net positive impact through our social, economic, and environmental initiatives,” said Dr Manessah Alagbaoso, Executive Head: Business Ecosystems & Sustainability for Business and Commercial Banking at Standard Bank. “The Sustainability Academy reflects our commitment to guiding both clients and non-clients on the path to a sustainable future.”
Practical tools for a sustainable transition
The Sustainability Academy offers training and insights across key areas, including:
* ESG fundamentals and their impact on business performance
* Renewable energy options tailored to industry needs
* Cost and productivity advantages of climate-smart agriculture
* Water and wastewater management techniques
* Understanding and leveraging carbon markets
Delivered via the Community Training platform, a Microsoft Azure-powered cloud-based solution developed in partnership with Philanthrosoft, the academy ensures a secure, scalable, and user-friendly experience for businesses in multiple African markets.
Accessible and customised learning
Available through Standard Bank’s website, the platform features:
* Secure single sign-on authentication
* Customised sustainability content developed by Standard Bank
* Industry-specific training modules
* Integrated assessments and feedback tools
* Dedicated relationship manager support
“We are thrilled to partner with Standard Bank on this transformative project,” said Terisha Maharaj, Strategic Account Director at Microsoft. “This initiative demonstrates how technology can democratise learning and empower businesses to thrive while contributing to a more sustainable Africa.”
Pilot success and continental rollout
Following a successful pilot involving 93 Business and Commercial Banking clients across Eswatini, Ghana, Nigeria, Lesotho, and South Africa, the full rollout is now underway. Feedback from the pilot helped refine the academy’s content, ensuring it addresses real-world challenges faced by businesses in various sectors.
The academy is now live in all countries where Standard Bank’s Business and Commercial Banking division operates and is accessible to businesses across the African continent—and globally.
“This initiative will not only enhance businesses’ understanding of sustainability but also help close the knowledge gap around this crucial topic in our markets,” added Dr Alagbaoso. “We aim to empower African SMMEs to make informed decisions that benefit their businesses, communities, and the environment.”
Looking ahead: Expanding impact through partnerships
Standard Bank plans to expand the academy’s reach by collaborating with educational institutions, multilateral organisations, businesses, and other stakeholders. These partnerships aim to amplify the academy’s value, support broader sustainability objectives, and contribute to UN Sustainable Development Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
This initiative underscores Standard Bank’s evolution beyond traditional banking—providing clients with value-added, future-focused solutions that support their long-term success while advancing Africa’s sustainable development.
