Each year, the International Training Centre of the ILO (ITCILO), in collaboration with the International Social Security Association (ISSA) and the International Labour Organization (ILO), offers a suite of training courses based on the ISSA Guidelines.

The ISSA Guidelines are internationally recognized professional standards that provide practical, experience-based guidance to help social security institutions strengthen governance, improve service delivery, enhance operational performance, and build resilient, people-centred organizations.

Through interactive learning and practical application, these courses help participants translate the ISSA Guidelines into improvements within their own institutions while connecting with peers from social security organizations around the world.

Participants will be able to:

• strengthen the capacity of their institutions by applying the ISSA Guidelines to improve social security administration;
• understand international principles, standards, and good practices in key areas of social security administration;
• develop practical skills to assess, adapt, and implement the ISSA Guidelines within their own organizations;
• exchange experiences with peers and become part of an international community of practice committed to administrative excellence.

The courses are designed for managers, administrators, specialists, and professionals working in ISSA member institutions who are responsible for the design, management, or delivery of social security services and wish to strengthen their knowledge and professional competencies.

Each course focuses on a specific set of ISSA Guidelines, combining international standards with practical tools, case studies, and peer learning. Participants gain the knowledge and skills to:

• understand the principles and recommendations of the selected ISSA Guidelines;
• assess current practices against internationally recognized standards;
• identify opportunities for improvement within their organizations;
• develop practical approaches to implementing the Guidelines in their own institutional context.

The courses combine online and face-to-face learning in three phases:

Before the course
Complete online learning activities introducing the selected ISSA Guidelines and key concepts.

During the course
Participate in an intensive, interactive programme led by international experts, featuring discussions, case studies, and practical exercises.

After the course
Complete an applied assignment, continue exchanging experiences with fellow participants, and receive a certificate upon successful completion of all course requirements.

Each course, listed below, has its own webpage with detailed information on learning outcomes, programme content, dates, fees, and participation requirements. We encourage you to consult the individual course pages to identify the course that best matches your professional interests and organizational needs.