On April 30, the Independent Evaluation Unit (IEU) hosted 30 students from the Department of European Trade at Incheon National University (INU) for an educational visit to the Green Climate Fund (GCF) headquarters in Songdo.

Andreas Reumann, Head of the IEU, opened the session with a presentation on the history of the GCF, its governance structure, and the role of the IEU in promoting evidence-informed decisions across the Fund. He emphasized that evaluation is not just about theory, but about measuring whether real change is happening on the ground.

During the open Q&A, students raised thoughtful questions about the urgency of climate action, the role of multilateral institutions, and how evaluation ensures accountability and learning in climate finance.

Students also heard from other independent units and departments of the GCF, including the Independent Redress Mechanism (IRM), the Independent Integrity Unit (IIU), the Department of Risk Management and Compliance, the Department of the Africa Region, and the Department of People and Culture. These presentations offered a broader understanding of the Fund’s internal functions and its commitment to ethical, transparent, and results-driven work.

Following the visit, a group of INU students published a blog post reflecting on their experience. As they wrote, “Before the visit, we thought of the GCF as just another financial institution—but what we saw and heard shifted that perspective entirely.” One point that resonated with them was that “the GCF doesn’t simply send money and hope for results. It has built a structure that makes its work meaningful and accountable.”

The blog also highlighted the role of the three independent units: “Through its three independent units—IEU (evaluation), IRM (grievance redress), and IIU (integrity)—the Fund evaluates outcomes, protects affected communities, and maintains ethical standards.” Students appreciated how even vulnerable communities are heard, noting, “we were impressed by how even vulnerable communities can file complaints anonymously and still be heard.”

The visit also gave students a glimpse into how GCF projects are developed and supported—such as a renewable housing initiative in Rwanda and electric bus systems in developing countries. The session concluded with information on the GCF’s internship program, offering pathways for student engagement and professional development.

This visit is part of an ongoing partnership between the IEU and INU and reflects our continued commitment to supporting climate education and local knowledge exchanges in the Songdo and Incheon area.

To read more from the students' perspective, visit their blog post: Where Policy Meets Finance: Visiting the Green Climate Fund