Micro-credentials Exchange System for Higher Education in Europe

ongoing

MESHE aims to foster a culture of lifelong learning across Europe by promoting the understanding and value of micro-credentials. With the growing availability of micro-credentials, the project seeks to raise awareness among learners of their benefits, while testing a unified European system for their exchange between universities. This approach will enhance collaboration among higher education institutions but also promote quality assurance and recognition across borders. Despite their increasing provision, micro-credentials remain under-used, largely because learners do not fully understand their potential, perceiving traditional degrees as the only path to career advancement. MESHE aims to bridge this perception gap by emphasising the value of micro-credentials as an effective means to upskill, enhance employability, and advance careers. University Lifelong Learning centres play a crucial role in this, helping learners recognise the practical and professional benefits of micro-credentials. The project will raise awareness of micro-credentials through a range of activities, including focus groups and surveys with students to identify barriers and opportunities. Additionally, it will pilot the exchange of micro-credentials between universities to test and refine processes for their portability and stackability. Key outcomes of the project include a strategic roundtable in Brussels, where stakeholders will discuss policy recommendations and an action plan for HE cooperation and exchange of micro-credentials. A final event will celebrate the achievements of learners who have participated in cross-university micro-credential programmes, further highlighting the value of these credentials as a viable and credible alternative to traditional degrees. Ultimately, MESHE will contribute to the development of a sustainable European framework for micro-credentials, encouraging their widespread adoption as a valuable learning pathway for learners at all career stages.