Communications specialist gains better understanding of emerging Sustainable Finance topics with short course

1. How did you find your experience in the Certificate Programme in Sustainable Finance?

The programme met my expectations—I found the programme scope sufficient to provide an introduction to sustainable finance. The materials / topics are extremely interesting and insightful, particularly Climate Risk Assessment, Sustainable Debt Markets and Sustainable Equity Markets.

Beyond coursework, the programme's admin and logistics aspects were smooth and seamless. Grateful to Programme Manager, Zilin for the speedy and efficient enrolment and onsite experience, and for taking such good care of us onsite—this allowed me to fully focus on the lessons. 

2. What motivated you to enrol in the Certificate Programme in Sustainable Finance?

My current work at the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) and previous work at Mizuho Securities Asia (MSA) influenced my interest in sustainable finance. I enrolled in the programme as I wanted to learn more about this emerging area.

3. Can you share any specific examples of how you've applied the knowledge gained from the programme in your professional role?

Since the completion of the programme, I am able to better digest and comprehend the technical terms used, as well as the significance of regulation developments in sustainable capital markets, in the research work and documents I came across at work. 

4. What aspects of the programme did you find most valuable or insightful?

The programme taught me to understand sustainable finance through the lens of quantifying climate risk, as well as the importance and significance of risk. I found Climate Risk Assessment, Sustainable Debt Markets and Sustainable Equity Markets most insightful and valuable. 

5. Can you discuss any collaborative projects or discussions within the programme that were particularly impactful for you?

Some topics can be dry at times, but some sessions were more engaging than the other, thanks to the instructors.    

The way Professor Simba got us to think about the below three questions at the start of the session before diving into the materials was impactful. It enabled me to compare and reflect on my perspectives on these issues before learning about the theory.

• Should companies be socially responsible?
• Whether firms can create value by being socially responsible?
• Can investment into firms with better CSR/ESG performance generate higher expected returns in financial markets?

6. What advice would you give to professionals considering enrolling in the Certificate Programme in Sustainable Finance?

Preferable to have some basic understanding of debt and equity concepts before starting the programme, so that you can follow the lessons and discussions easily.

Certificate Programme in Sustainable Finance
The programme is jointly developed by NTU and UN Global Compact Network Singapore, and in collaboration with leading industry practitioners in the sustainable capital and debt market fields. 

It helps you to understand the fundamentals of sustainable finance, Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) metrics and reporting frameworks, responsible investment strategies and their impact on environment, business and society.