RSPO Raises Audit Quality Worldwide Through Expanded Train-the-Trainers Programme

RSPO is strengthening the quality and consistency of its audits through a significant expansion of its global Train-the-Trainers programme. Building on years of sustained investment in auditor and trainer capacity, this new series of courses responds to rising expectations from regulators, markets, and RSPO members, while supporting the effective implementation of the RSPO 2024 Standards.

Over time, RSPO has developed a robust ecosystem for technical training and continuous upskilling of auditors, trainers, and certification bodies. This effort now enters a new phase with updated content, expanded regional capacity, innovative learning platforms, and a growing network of accredited trainers. The result is a more mature, resilient system designed to deliver precise, consistent, and high-quality audits worldwide.

Supporting the transition to the 2024 Standards

The 2025 training cycle began in Medan, Indonesia, in late November, where the RSPO Learning Centre delivered the Train-the-Trainers programme for the 2024 Principles and Criteria (P&C). The course combined classroom instruction with a field visit, reinforcing practical skills that enable trainers to guide auditors on what to observe, how to assess compliance, and how to prioritise findings during RSPO audits.

This work reflects RSPO’s long-term commitment to strengthening verification systems, reaffirmed at its Annual Roundtable Conference. With fortified standards, enhanced assurance processes, and an end-to-end digital certification, trade, and traceability system, RSPO continues to prepare its members for the future.

Strengthening regional capacity in Latin America

From 3–5 December, the programme continued in Bogotá, Colombia, focusing on Independent Smallholders (ISH) and strengthening the capacities of Endorsed Training Partners (ETPs). The region now has four prospective ETPs for the first time, reflecting the growing demand for training under updated standards.

RSPO Learning Courses follow a structured pathway combining self-paced e-learning through the RSPO Learning Centre, trainer-led virtual sessions to support interpretation, and in-person classroom training to consolidate practical application before certification. This structure also underpins the new auditor training framework for both P&C and ISH Standards.

From theory to field-ready skills

The programme concluded in Bucaramanga, Colombia, with advanced theoretical sessions followed by field visits to plantations, independent smallholders, and the Palmas del Cesar mill. This hands-on exposure strengthened practical competencies and ensured trainers are equipped to deliver high-quality, field-ready instruction.

Trainings in Indonesia and Colombia were led by experienced Malaysian trainers Aminah Ang and Sabarinah Marzuky, both with extensive RSPO audit and certification expertise.

Continuous training remains a cornerstone of the RSPO system. By strengthening trainer and auditor capacity, RSPO reinforces the credibility of its certification, supports continuous improvement for producers, and delivers stronger assurance for its members and global markets.