Strengthening the international dimension of universities in South-East Asia through the development of micro-credentials and their recognition

ongoing

MICRO4ASIA project aiming at modernization and internationalisation of the HEIs in Vietnam and Laos through development of a common mechanism facilitating wider using and recognition of micro-credentials and boost international academic mobility. The growing use of micro-credentials is an outcome of the changing nature of the labour market that requires graduates and professionals to be familiar with state-of-the-art knowledge, and to possess the skills and competences needed to make full use of technological and nontechnological know-how. Employers demand flexibility and quick reactions of HEIs and other educational organisations to changing circumstances. Micro-credentials are particularly useful in this situation, as they allow for tailored, quick and accessible skills (re)development. Common approach to micro-credentials will increase personalised learning opportunities for all. It will help widen learning opportunities and strengthen the role of higher education and vocational education and training (VET) institutions in promoting lifelong learning by providing more flexible and modular learning opportunities. While a growing number of higher education institutions are already working on the development of these microcredentials, a common definition and a common approach on their validation and recognition is lacking (Commission, 2019a). In this context, the European Commission presented a proposal for a Council Recommendation in 2021 to build trust in microcredentials across Europe and aimed at having all the necessary steps in place by 2025 for their wider use, portability and recognition (Commission, 2020c). MICRO4ASIA project consortium aims to develop a common approach to micro-credentials using EU best practices and international experiences, but also in partner countries on local, national and international levels, taking in the account all new phenomena such as internationalisation of education and growing use of digital learning, creation of flexibl