A peer-learning activity on microcredentials was jointly organised by the European Commission and Cedefop on 29 January. The event offered insights into the European policy framework on microcredentials, Cedefop’s latest research in this field, as well as examples of the use of microcredentials in two labour market sectors.
A variety of speakers and around 200 participants discussed the challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and retail.
In her opening remarks, the European Commission’s Head of Unit Vocational Education and Training (VET) Chiara Riondino expressed her enthusiasm about the lively participation of people in Europe and beyond, adding that ‘microcredentials are very flexible and everybody can use them to upgrade their skills.’
Cedefop Head of Department for VET and Qualifications Loukas Zahilas talked about the Agency’s work on the topic, stressing that ‘Cedefop provides insights into the changing nature of qualifications and credential systems in Europe.’
Cedefop expert Anastasia Pouliou gave an overview of the Agency’s work on microcredentials for labour market and highlighted their significance in the manufacturing sector, drawing on Cedefop’s 2022 mapping exercise.
The implications of microcredentials for manufacturing were presented by the European Federation’s for Welding, Joining and Cutting Adelaide Almeida and Iñigo Araiztegui Arraiz, of the Basque VET Applied Research Centre Tknica.
Additional insights into microcredentials in the retail sector were provided by Cedefop expert Iraklis Pliakis, while two cases were presented by the Swedish Retail and Wholesale Council CEO Mats Johansson and Cristina Dimas from Portugal’s Vocational Training Centre for the Commerce and Services Sectors (CECOA).
The session concluded with an open discussion on the benefits and challenges of microcredentials in the two sectors, led by European Commission VET policy officer Isabel Ladrón Arroyo.
The activity was a valuable opportunity to share knowledge and experiences. While it is undeniable that microcredentials have the potential to meet European citizens’, companies’ and countries’ diverse education and labour market needs, further comprehensive and context-sensitive research is needed.
Cedefop will continue its work in the field by launching a new research study in 2024.
You can watch a recording of the event here.
