HSE Graduate School of Business project recognized as one of Russia’s best ESG initiatives
The competition aims to identify best practices in sustainable development and promote ESG principles in Russian business and education. This year, more than 670 applications were submitted, with 61 of the most impactful initiatives selected.
HSE GSB won the award with its project titled “Systemic Transformation of Educational Programs and Courses at HSE Graduate School of Business for the Development of Competencies in Sustainable Development.” The initiative is aimed at equipping students with advanced sustainability competencies to prepare socially responsible leaders capable of addressing complex challenges and designing solutions for business, society, and the state.
The initiative spans both bachelor's and master’s programs, delivered in in-person and online formats, and includes students from across Russia, the CIS, and beyond. The project involves the development of courses and the creation of a modern instructional framework focused on problem-based learning. It also includes applied projects commissioned by professional and business stakeholders, applied research in the field of sustainability, and the promotion of a culture of responsible behavior and management. Each year, over 2,000 students engage in studying ESG and sustainability-related courses. Students also carry out projects in ESG analytics, sustainable marketing, ESG communications, and other sustainability tasks for GSB corporate partners such as Sber, Nornickel, Vkusno i Tochka, Unilever, X5 Group, and others.
Anna Veselova
Director of the Center for Corporate Sustainable Development at HSE Graduate School of Business
“It is extremely important to us that sustainability is no longer viewed solely as part of an external agenda, but becomes an integral part of the academic environment. We strive to ensure that students not only learn the theory but also understand how ESG principles work in practice — through case studies, project work, and cooperation with businesses. This helps future leaders develop not just professional skills, but responsible thinking and readiness for systemic change within companies and society.”
Recognition at the level of a national award confirms the importance of HSE GSB’s systemic approach to embedding ESG competencies in the educational environment and training leaders committed to sustainable development in business and society.