The E.S.G. A.S.C.E.N.D. Framework
The E.S.G. A.S.C.E.N.D. Framework is IASE Africa’s comprehensive evaluation model designed to assess and ensure the quality, integrity, and impact of ESG and sustainability training programs. This framework serves as the foundation for all CPD Provider and Program Accreditation decisions, reinforcing IASE’s commitment to credible, accessible, and future-ready education.
What is the E.S.G. A.S.C.E.N.D. Framework?
The E.S.G. A.S.C.E.N.D. Framework is a 9-pillar quality assurance tool that helps IASE evaluate CPD providers and their training programs and activities. It ensures alignment with global sustainability standards and ESG best practices while promoting inclusive, high-quality professional development.
The E.S.G. A.S.C.E.N.D. Framework For evaluating sutainability-related CPD programs
Each letter in “ASCEND” represents a core pillar of our evaluation model. Our assessment team carefully map the structure, content, and delivery of your activity against our exclusive E.S.G A.S.C.E.N.D. Framework to ensure your organisation and materials meet and exceed the required standards.
Evaluation
Programs must have robust mechanisms for assessing learning outcomes and collecting participant feedback.
Scientific Rigor
Content must be evidence-based, developed or reviewed by subject matter experts with deep ESG expertise.
Governance
Providers must demonstrate ethical practices, quality assurance processes, and a transparent approach to program delivery.
Accessibility
Programs must be inclusive, flexible, and accessible to professionals from diverse backgrounds, with support for disabilities and varied learning needs.
Sustainability
Content must align with principles of environmental and social sustainability and support the global sustainable development agenda.
Content Quality
Course materials must be accurate, up-to-date, and grounded in recognized ESG frameworks such as GRI, SASB, ISO, and the UN SDGs.
Engagement
Programs must include learner-centric, interactive methods such as case studies, group discussions, simulations, and practical exercises.
Networking Opportunities
Where possible, programs should facilitate professional connections and community-building through peer collaboration and exposure to thought leaders.
Diversity & Inclusion
Programs must promote representation, equity, and the integration of diverse global and cultural perspectives.
Why the E.S.G. A.S.C.E.N.D. Framework Matters
The E.S.G. A.S.C.E.N.D Framework ensures:
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Clear and transparent quality standards
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Alignment with international ESG benchmarks
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Greater trust and recognition for endorsed providers
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High-impact learning experiences for ESG professionals
This framework is what sets IASE apart as a rigorous, trustworthy accreditor of ESG education and professional development in Africa and beyond.
How the E.S.G. A.S.C.E.N.D Framework is Applied
During the Provider Accreditation and CPD Activity Approval processes, IASE uses the E.S.G. A.S.C.E.N.D Framework to evaluate the organization’s governance, ethics, and readiness to deliver ESG-aligned training.
During the Program Accreditation stage, it is used to assess individual programs for content quality, engagement, accessibility, scientific depth, and learner impact.
E.S.G. A.S.C.E.N.D in Action
Every endorsed program listed in the IASE directory has been assessed using the E.S.G. A.S.C.E.N.D Framework. This ensures members, employers, and regulators can trust the relevance, quality, and professionalism of each offering.
Want your ESG training company and training activities to be benchmarked against Africa’s leading ESG quality standard?
