IWLEARN

GEF International Waters (IW) Project Management Course
Online

GEF IW PMC

GEF International Waters (IW) Project Management Course

English

The main objective of this ONLINE course is to support new GEF Project Managers and key stakeholders in implementing GEF International Waters (IW) projects, while strengthening their understanding of the processes and approaches involved. It also seeks to provide guidance on critical topics across different stages of a project and direct users toward additional resources and information as needed. 

This course, based on the accompanying Manual, offers a comprehensive guide to managing these complex, multidisciplinary projects. Together, the course and Manual build a shared foundation of expectations for GEF IW project design and execution, using illustrative fictitious scenarios modelled on real-world examples to demonstrate key processes, requirements, and best practices. 

Learning goal

To equip new GEF Project Managers and key stakeholders with the knowledge, processes, and best practices necessary to effectively implement and manage GEF IW projects, fostering confidence and informed decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this training, learners will be able to:

  • Recognise the scope and objectives of the course.
  • Identify the GEF IW project-specific requirements.
  • Define the concept of International Waters in the GEF context and the importance of transboundary waters.
  • Describe the role of GEF IW projects in advancing the strategic priorities of the GEF IW focal area.
  • Explain the fundamentals and key principles of GEF IW projects, including incremental costs, adaptive management, ecosystem approach, and sustainable development, among others.
  • Identify the critical success factors in managing a GEF IW project.
  • Outline the core responsibilities and challenges of a GEF IW Project Manager.
  • Explain the key project management activities required at different phases of a GEF IW project: Project Startup, Inception Phase, Implementation Phase, and Closure.
  • Identify and effectively navigate the support systems and resources available through GEF IW:LEARN and related networks.
  • Explain the role of Monitoring and Evaluation in GEF IW projects and describe key tools used to track project progress and impact.
  • Identify key financial planning considerations for GEF IW projects, including the principles of co-financing and financial reporting.
  • Describe common governance structures in GEF IW projects and explain how they support effective project coordination and decision-making.
  • Identify key stakeholder groups and explain methods for ensuring meaningful engagement in GEF IW project planning and implementation.
  • Outline the key elements of a strategic communication approach and the ways it can be leveraged to increase project impact and knowledge sharing.
  • Describe best practices for data, information, and knowledge management in GEF IW projects.
  • Explain the importance of gender mainstreaming in GEF IW projects and identify actions that promote gender equality in project design and execution.
  • Describe the key pathway for GEF Project Managers to build public-private partnerships, acknowledging shared benefits and opportunities.
  • Explain the principles of strategically managing social and environmental risks in GEF IW projects.

Target audience

This course is open to everyone, and it was designed primarly to support new GEF Project Managers and key stakeholders in implementing GEF IW projects.

Course content

The course is divided into the following modules:

Module 1: Introduction to the Course 

This module introduces participants to the overall scope and objectives of the GEF IW Project Management Course, highlighting the specific requirements and context of GEF International Waters projects. 

Module 2: GEF International Waters Project Philosophy 

The second module defines the foundational concepts of International Waters in the GEF context, explores the strategic importance of GEF IW projects, and delves into the guiding principles such as adaptive management, sustainable development, and partnerships. It also covers the roles and support systems for project managers. 

Module 3: The Project Checklist 

This module provides a detailed walkthrough of essential project management activities across the entire lifecycle of a GEF IW project, from Project Startup through Inception, Implementation, and Closure, outlining key tasks and responsibilities for each phase. 

Module 4: GEF IW Project Management Topics 

This module covers a range of critical, cross-cutting topics in GEF IW project management, including Monitoring & Evaluation, financial planning, governance, stakeholder engagement, communication, knowledge management, gender mainstreaming, public-private partnerships, and risk management.

Instructors and organizers

This course was prepared by IW:LEARN Project Coordination Unit and Support team, based on the GEF IW Project Manager's Manual.Additional contributors are acknowledged in the respective links. The course was developed and delivered through the support of the OceanTeacher Global Academy of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO.

Assessment & Certificate

This course contains self-paced automated online knowledge checks and assessments. 

In order to successfully complete the course and be awarded a certificate, the following are mandatory: 

  • Complete all modules and lessons.  
  • Complete all quizzes (80% pass mark, 2 attempts) and other scenario based assessments. 
  • Complete the pre and post-assessment questionaries. 
  • Submit the feedback survey.

Duration

Estimated time required to complete the course is 20 hours in self-paced mode.

Registration and costs

This course is offered on a continuous basis, with open registrations as yearly cohorts, with no tuition fees.

UNESCO is committed to promoting equal access principles. Registration from minority or underrepresented groups is strongly encouraged.

How to enroll: 

Enrolment is available from 1 October 2026, for this cohort.

To access this course, you must register on the OceanExpert (www.oceanexpert.org) and have an individual account approved (this is not done immediately). Once your OceanExpert account is activated, you must:

Minimum technology requirements

Learning Management System (Moodle) and other learning resources

  • Computer with a modern operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux)
  • Latest version of either Chrome, Edge, Firefox or Safari web browsers
  • JavaScript and cookies enabled
  • Broadband internet access (minimum bandwidth of 0.5 Mbps (Receive and Send)
  • Speakers or headphones, Microphone

Computer skills required

You should be proficient in the following:

  • basic computer skills
  • finding resources through search engines
  • the ability to be self-directed in learning new technology skills (e.g. following a step-by-step tutorial, online video help, or access to support to learn necessary skills)

Contacts

For any questions, please contact OTGA Secretariat (ioc.training@unesco.org) always using the name of the course as e-mail subject.

Cancellation policy

In the event of cancellation of the course by the OTGA or its affiliates, we will provide notification of cancellation at least 7 days prior to the course date. In the event of cancellation by the attendee, we should receive notification of cancellation at least 7 days prior to the course date.