Erasmus Days 2024: MASTERY Project Webinar Illuminates the Role of Micro-Credentials in Building Sustainable Skills

On October 15th, 2024, the MASTERY project hosted a webinar as part of the Erasmus Days celebrations, drawing over 70 participants eager to explore how micro-credentials can support the development of sustainable skills. Titled «Greening the Future: Micro-Credentials Empowering Sustainable Skills,» the event aligned with the goals of the Erasmus+ programme by spotlighting innovative educational approaches designed to prepare learners for a sustainable future.

Focus on EU’s Approach to Lifelong Learning and Employability

The webinar opened with insights from Isabel Ladrón Arroyo of the European Commission, who discussed the EU’s strategic focus on micro-credentials to bolster lifelong learning and enhance employability. Following her presentation, Stefano Tirati from EfVET and Oonagh McGirr from WAM shared perspectives on creating a supportive ecosystem for micro-credentials, while Silvia Toneva of NAVET highlighted best practices in policy-making using Estonia and Bulgaria as case studies. Research findings from the MASTERY project were then shared by Giulia Alessandri from SSSA, demonstrating how micro-credentials can reshape education and equip learners with skills critical for sustainability.

Diverse Insights from National Brainstorming Sessions

The webinar participants then joined national and European brainstorming sessions to discuss the current application and future direction of micro-credentials:

  • Spain focused on the importance of evaluation methods and quality assurance to ensure industry relevance. The need to align micro-credentials with vocational learners’ needs, support digital transition, and integrate micro-credentials into Spain’s vocational training law were also emphasized.
  • Finland emphasized digital badges as tools to motivate learners, recommending clearer credential structures that avoid overlap with existing credits. The session underscored the necessity for validated education providers and stronger ties between institutions and industry.
  • Italy prioritized micro-credentials tailored to trainees’ needs. Participants advocated for updating competencies in dynamic technological sectors, while also recognizing prior formal and informal learning achievements.
  • Bulgaria highlighted the need for structured dialogue on micro-credentials, suggesting a collaborative approach involving the Ministry of Education, labor authorities, and universities to foster recognition and trust in these credentials.

European Session Highlights Industry Recognition

In the European session, LIPOR Academy shared its innovative training programs that cater to market needs, underscoring the need for industry-wide recognition of micro-credentials. Participants discussed raising awareness of micro-credentials and their potential, with Vocational Education and Training (VET) providers urging businesses to support and acknowledge these qualifications.

The event underscored the significant role of micro-credentials in empowering learners with the skills necessary for a sustainable future and provided valuable recommendations for integrating these innovations into educational and vocational frameworks across Europe.

DOWNLOAD THE PRESENTATIONS HERE