Micro-credentials have become increasingly important in the European higher education area in recent years. In July 2021, the European Commission launched a public consultation on micro-credentials.  The discussion on this topic culminated in the submission of the European Council proposal “Council Recommendation on a European approach to micro-credentials for lifelong learning and employability” which was endorsed by the representatives of the EU Member States on 16 June 2022.

The recommendation establishes a common definition, standard elements and principles for the design and issuance of micro-credentials in order to ensure a coherent and consistent use of micro-credentials by Member States, stakeholders and providers.

The aim of the event was to add a distinctly global approach to the ongoing discussions on micro-credentials. Panel discussions featured speakers from all regions of the world and breakout sessions presented various examples of good practice and initiatives in micro-credentials from Asia/Pacific, Africa and America.

The panellists discussed various issues in particular notional volume of learning, stackability, flexible pathway and transparency. The panellists agreed on one issue, namely the need to focus on building relationships between employers, the community, and higher education institutions to ensure that all learning (formal and informal) is reflected throughout the educational pathways.