Training Academy launches new resettlement course for hydropower professionals
The Hydropower Sustainability Alliance (HSA) has launched a new online course to support hydropower professionals in managing one of the most complex and sensitive aspects of project development: resettlement.
The course, Resettlement Management in Hydropower, is now available and is the third in HSA’s growing online learning series focused on environmental, social and governance (ESG) aspects of hydropower.
Designed for project managers, sustainability professionals, government agencies, engineers, and other stakeholders, the course offers a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of responsible resettlement planning and implementation in hydropower.
What does the resettlement course cover?
Participants will learn how to identify, plan for, and manage physical and economic displacement in ways that respect the rights and wellbeing of affected communities, while avoiding costly delays and reputational risks.
The course takes learners through each stage of the resettlement process, including how to assess the scale and complexity of displacement, and the factors to consider when trying to avoid or minimise it. It explores the early steps involved in scoping resettlement once a project site has been selected, followed by detailed guidance on planning and implementation.
The final module focuses on monitoring, covering how to track resettlement progress, assess outcomes for all displaced households, and ensure living standards are being restored.
Through interactive content and real-world case studies, course participants will gain insights into both best practices and common pitfalls, helping them design projects that minimise displacement and deliver fair, transparent and timely resettlement processes.
“Resettlement is one of the hardest things to get right in a hydropower project,” said Amina Kadyrzhanova, Senior Sustainability Specialist at HSA. “It affects people’s lives in a direct and often deeply personal way, so it’s essential that project developers understand not just the technical steps, but the human side too. This course is about helping people plan and carry out resettlement in a way that’s fair, respectful and practical.”
Committing to improve the living standards of displaced people
“Managing resettlement in hydropower requires applying internationally-agreed principles, as well as hands-on practicalities of planning and implementation,” according to Doug Smith, Accredited Lead Assessor, who contributed to course development.
“For example, a commitment to improving the living standards of displaced people can only be delivered through real-world technical know-how. Both are important, and I hope the training can help the participants bridge this implementation gap.”
The new course follows the introduction of HSA’s biodiversity management and environmental and social management courses earlier in 2025, which have attracted strong interest across the sector.
All courses are designed for flexible, self-paced learning, with a training certificate issued upon completion.
The Resettlement in Hydropower course is now available for purchase. Learn more and register for the course.
