GALWAY, IRELAND – 2026-01-28

Alison, the global leader in free online learning, announces a landmark partnership with the Afghan Society of Civil Engineers (AfSCE) to deliver accessible training for civil engineers in Afghanistan. AfSCE is a volunteer-based NGO representing 500-1000 members in Afghanistan's manufacturing and engineering sector, providing free access to over 6,000 Alison’s CPD-accredited courses. Since the December launch, the programme has seen immediate traction, with learners already completing advanced modules and overcoming challenges such as limited internet access amid prolonged instability. This collaboration bridges international isolation by offering courses in engineering, project management, leadership, and professional development, positioning AfSCE as a local facilitator for onboarding and structured learning paths.

Overcoming Skills Gaps With Workplace Learning Solutions

Afghan civil engineers face immense barriers to modern technical training due to prolonged international isolation and limited local resources. AfSCE is acting as a "valuable bridge," facilitating onboarding and identifying active members to ensure they can compete on a global stage. This move is supported by current industry data: according to Deloitte’s 2025 Human Capital Trends report, 89% of organisations in emerging markets now prioritise upskilling to address critical talent gaps. Furthermore, Gartner research indicates that 94% of HR leaders view skills data as essential for maintaining workforce agility in volatile environments.

Partnership Delivers Organisational Upskilling Impact

Early outcomes demonstrate the power of organisational upskilling through Alison's platform: members report heightened confidence and engagement, with AfSCE strengthening its role as a global education bridge. Data proves that learning is the engine of growth; companies that double employee development opportunities see a 14% spike in productivity [SHRM/Gallup 2025]. By promoting civil engineers' upskilling courses and structured paths, the initiative has enrolled learners on Alison's civil engineers online learning content, paving the way for civil engineer training certificates that enhance leadership and infrastructure contributions.

Leaders Celebrate Mutual Success

"This partnership is a masterclass in how our Free Business LMS can bridge the global skills gap in real-time, said Olivia Cosgrove, Head of Business Solutions, Alison. By removing the cost barrier to world-class technical training, we are empowering Afghan engineers to lead their nation’s infrastructure projects with confidence. We aren't just providing courses; we're delivering a scalable solution for professional mastery that works anywhere in the world."

 

“At AfSCE, we are committed to strengthening professional capacity and leadership within the civil and infrastructure community through accessible, high-quality learning opportunities. Our collaboration with Alison aligns strongly with our mission to empower professionals with practical skills, global exposure, and lifelong learning pathways that contribute to sustainable development and institutional growth.” — Mustafa Mirzad, Founder & President, AfSCE (Afghan Society of Civil Engineers)

Future-Proofing Engineers’ Learning Infrastructure

Looking ahead, AfSCE plans to fully integrate Alison’s civil engineers' upskilling courses into its structured training programs and national seminars. This partnership serves as a sustainable model for delivering quality education in conflict-affected regions. McKinsey reports that 70% of companies in such zones are now prioritising digital training to build long-term resilience. By sharing success stories and promoting certification, AfSCE aims to inspire wider participation across Afghanistan, ensuring that the next generation of builders is equipped with internationally recognised training certificates.

Multimedia/Resource links:

• Explore Alison’s learning paths for Civil Engineers
• Set up Free LMS for team learning in 5 minutes
• Make smart talent decisions with Alison’s Psychometric testing
• Get a one-month trial of Alison’s API for limitless organisational learning
• Read success stories from organisations like yours 

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About the Afghan Society of Civil Engineers (AfSCE)

The Afghan Society of Civil Engineers (AfSCE) is a volunteer-led professional association dedicated to bridging the critical skills gap for engineers across Afghanistan. Operating in the manufacturing and engineering sector with a membership base of 500–1,000 professionals, the NGO serves as a vital local facilitator for international learning and professional development. Its core mission is to empower the next generation of builders by connecting them with global standards, technical expertise, and leadership opportunities necessary for national infrastructure development.

As a valuable strategic partner, AfSCE actively identifies motivated members and supports their transition into structured online learning paths. By integrating world-class training into national seminars and promoting continuous certification, the society fosters a sustainable ecosystem for technical excellence even in the most challenging environments. This commitment ensures that Afghan civil engineers gain the global training exposure required to drive long-term national growth and professional resilience.

About Alison

Alison is a global leader in free online learning and skills development. With over 50 million registered Learners across 193 countries (as of October 2025), Alison empowers individuals, communities, and organisations to upskill quickly and effectively — at zero cost.

The Alison platform provides immediate access to over 6,000 free, CPD-accredited courses, covering essential areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Digital Marketing, Project Management, Business Operations, Healthcare and Sustainability. Courses are created by a mix of independent experts and global leaders, including IBM, Stanford and Microsoft.

For organisations, Alison offers a Free Learning Management System (LMS) that enables unlimited Learners to access thousands of courses with no upfront cost. A premium version with advanced analytics and customisation is also available. Alison's offering includes a full suite of assessments and psychometric tools, including a Workforce Personality Assessment, Mental Health & Wellbeing, English Language Proficiency, Numeracy, Verbal and Abstract Reasoning tests.

To further support career development, Learners also gain access to a Career Guide, a Resumé Builder, and the ability to study offline through the Alison App.

In 2025, Alison is launching a Global Recruitment Service to connect employers directly with skilled, motivated Learners. The platform is also expanding its reach with multilingual versions, starting with full Spanish, French, and Hindi offerings — reaffirming its mission to make education accessible to anyone, anywhere.

Founded in 2007, Alison pioneered the concept of free, large-scale online learning and is recognised as the world’s first MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) platform. Today, its mission continues: to break down barriers to learning, helping people gain skills, build confidence, and improve their lives — no matter where they live or what they earn.

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Media Contact

If you would like to learn more about this Press Release, or Alison, please contact the Alison Media Team at [email protected]