Cap-Net UNDP: Building a Global Water Learning Hub with Open edX

Cap-Net is a global network focused on water learning, with a mission to become a global hub for capacity development on water issues. In 2019, Cap-Net requested proposals to redesign its virtual campus and website — seeking to adapt its tools to the growing pace of its online learning activities and expand its global reach.

Cap-Net's old virtual campus had been developed using a WordPress plugin. Over the years, as course content and participant numbers grew, this basic architecture became a limitation to further growth.

Aulasneo implemented a brand new virtual campus powered by Open edX — a world-class open-source LMS developed by Harvard, MIT and Stanford — in a dedicated instance tailored to Cap-Net's needs.

Open edX's robust and scalable architecture supports thousands of online students and courses with a clean user experience and advanced features including Panorama analytics, certifications, and multi-organization course delivery.

With the new virtual campus, Cap-Net is able to deliver online courses in collaboration with global organizations including UNICEF, UNDP, UN Habitat, ANSI, and GWP — contributing toward reaching Sustainable Development Goal 6 (clean water and sanitation).

The platform enables Cap-Net to scale its learning programs globally without technical limitations, providing learners worldwide with access to high-quality water education.

This implementation demonstrates how Open edX enables NGOs and international organizations to run large-scale learning programs with full control over content, participants, and data — without the constraints of proprietary platforms or WordPress-based workarounds.