International Commission on Workforce Development

The International Commission on Workforce Development (ICWFD) is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free employability skills training, particularly in developing countries.

Background and Objectives

Founded in 2002, ICWFD aims to bridge the gap between educational institutions and the dynamic needs of the labor market. It recognizes that traditional educational systems often leave graduates underprepared for real-world job demands, focusing instead on alleviating poverty and empowering women.

Programs and Initiatives

ICWFD partners with leading e-learning content providers to offer over 3,000 high-quality courses in fields such as business, information technology, and professional certifications. These courses are used by prestigious institutions like Harvard and MIT and are made available at a significantly reduced cost, sometimes even for free, thanks to donations and sponsorship programs designed for students in disadvantaged communities.

Impact and Reach

ICWFD has impacted over 3 million people, especially in G77 developing countries, by providing them with the skills needed to compete in today's workforce. It also supports individuals in disadvantaged sectors of developed economies.

Community Engagement

ICWFD encourages community involvement through corporate social responsibility programs, employee engagement initiatives, and cause marketing strategies. It invites volunteers to join its mission of promoting "21st-century employability skills for all."

Unique Features

A notable feature of ICWFD's programs is its use of special codes to access courses without needing credit cards, making it accessible from anywhere. This includes distribution via SMS, email, or co-branded gift/scratch cards, which serve both as a donation mechanism and a tool for corporate social responsibility.

[1] https://icwfd.org [2] https://www.twc.texas.gov/find-locations [3] https://www.wrksolutions.com [4] https://uia.org/s/or/en/1122270426 [5] https://www.idealist.org/en/nonprofit/53441358e30748268b639551609734dd-international-commission-on-workforce-development-san-francisco