Free WEFE Nexus Online Course 2026

The Water–Energy–Food–Ecosystems (WEFE) Nexus Global Level Course is a free online training programme developed through collaboration between the UNEP-DHI Centre, Cap-Net and Global Water Partnership–Mediterranean.

The course introduces an integrated approach to managing water, energy, food systems and ecosystems. Rather than considering these sectors independently, the WEFE Nexus examines how decisions affecting one resource can influence the availability, sustainability and management of others.

This approach is particularly important for addressing climate change, water scarcity, environmental degradation, food security and sustainable resource management.

Designed for professionals and stakeholders working across relevant sectors, the course combines theoretical learning with practical examples, case studies and interactive activities.

Participants explore WEFE Nexus frameworks, resource assessments, scenario development, climate change adaptation, stakeholder engagement and integrated decision-making.

The programme draws on case studies from Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East and Small Island Developing States, helping learners understand how resource-management challenges differ across geographical and socio-economic contexts.

Course Structure

The programme consists of four modules:

Module 1: Introduction to the WEFE Nexus

Introduces the relationship between water, energy, food systems and ecosystems, including the principles and importance of integrated resource management.

Module 2: Scenario Development and Nexus Assessments for Informed Decision-Making

Explores scenario development, resource indicators, data collection and assessment tools used to support planning and decision-making.

Module 3: WEFE Nexus Interlinkages in the Context of Climate Change

Examines climate change impacts, adaptation strategies, mitigation and the relationship between climate resilience and resource security.

Module 4: Operationalizing Nexus Solutions

Focuses on practical responses, stakeholder engagement, financing, governance and monitoring approaches for integrated resource management.

Each module includes introductory videos, reading materials, additional learning resources, discussion forums and assessments.

The course is intended for participants from diverse stakeholder groups working in relevant sectors worldwide.

Eligible target groups include:

• Water management professionals and stakeholders.
• Professionals working with civil society organisations and river basin organisations.
• Staff and stakeholders from international organisations and development programmes.
• Professionals involved in United Nations organisations and related initiatives.
• Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) focal points and facilitators in national governments.
• Government decision-makers, policymakers and senior managers.
• Energy planners and professionals working in energy-related sectors.
• Agricultural and food-system professionals.
• Environmental and ecosystem management practitioners.
• Climate change adaptation and resilience specialists.
• Capacity development professionals working in water management, governance and climate-related fields.

• Free access to the online WEFE Nexus training programme.
• Free downloadable completion certificate after meeting course requirements.
• Four structured learning modules.
• Approximately 22 hours of learning.
• Introductory knowledge of integrated water, energy, food and ecosystem management.
• Training in scenario development and resource assessments.
• Understanding of climate adaptation and mitigation approaches.
• Exposure to international case studies and practical resource-management challenges.
• Opportunities to exchange experiences through discussion forums.
• Learning materials developed with established international organisations.
• Flexible online study through the Cap-Net Virtual Campus.

The official course description does not publish a mandatory document checklist.

Applicants should follow the registration instructions displayed on the Cap-Net Virtual Campus.

• Online registration through the official learning platform.
• Required account and profile information requested during registration.
• Any additional information specifically requested by the platform.

The official course page does not describe a competitive selection process or publish an admissions scoring system.

The following completion conditions are confirmed:

• Participants must complete all four modules.
• A multiple-choice assessment is required at the end of each module.
• Participants must achieve at least 60% correct responses.
• Up to three attempts are permitted for each module quiz.
• A short feedback survey must be completed.
• Certificates become available after successful course completion.

• Gain practical knowledge of the Water–Energy–Food–Ecosystems Nexus.
• Understand connections between natural resources and sustainable development.
• Explore integrated approaches to water, energy and food security.
• Strengthen understanding of climate change adaptation and resilience.
• Learn about resource assessments and evidence-based decision-making.
• Study international case studies from different regions.
• Develop knowledge relevant to environmental planning, sustainability and development.
• Receive a free course completion certificate.
• Learn through an established international water-management training network.