NOUN VC seeks national framework on micro-credentials

THE vice chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Professor Olufemi Peters, has emphasised the need for a national framework to regulate and guide the growing trend of micro-credentials and Artificial Intelligence in Nigeria’s educational system.

Peters made the call at the regional consultative meeting for West Africa, organised by the Regional Training and Research Institute for Open and Distance Learning (RETRIDOL) at NOUN, in collaboration with the Commonwealth of Learning (COL) in Abuja.

Micro-credentials are short, focused certifications that demonstrate an individual’s skills or knowledge in specific areas. Unlike traditional degrees or diplomas, micro-credentials are shorter and more skills-specific.

The VC warned that the rapid adoption of alternative learning pathways, driven by advancements in AI and digital technologies, could redefine the value of traditional academic qualifications.

He called for immediate attention from policymakers and educational institutions to establish clear standards for micro-credentials in the country.

Speaking on the future of traditional degrees, Peters warned that the rapid adoption of these technologies and alternative learning pathways could soon redefine the value and relevance of conventional academic qualifications, stressing that this shift demands urgent attention from policymakers and educational institutions, calling for a national framework on micro-credentials.

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The workshop aimed to develop a framework for micro-credentials in a digital age, with the understanding that micro-credentialing could soon become a disruptive force in the traditionally structured process of knowledge delivery.

“I think what we are gathered here to do is crucial-to establish institutional guidelines for micro-credentialing through a collaborative approach involving institutions, regulatory bodies, and industry stakeholders.

“I believe that by creating a structured framework, institutions can effectively implement micro-credentialing programmes that meet the needs of both learners and employers while enhancing educational pathways and workforce readiness,” he said.

He called on national regulatory bodies, especially the National Universities Commission(NUC), “to take a leadership role in formulating nationally defined standards, goals, and definitions, aligned with our education objectives and quality assurance frameworks to strengthen micro-credentialing in Nigeria.” 

Also speaking, the president and Chief Executive Officer of the Commonwealth of Learning (COL), Professor Peter Scott, said the meeting served as a platform to collaboratively build an inclusive and practical credit transfer framework, shaping a more accessible and adaptive future for education.

He added that promoting credit transfer by implementing small but impactful strategies, such as vibrant learning resources, is essential.

He added: “This meeting is a vital part of a collective effort to shape the future of education and training across the Commonwealth enhancing the portability and recognition of qualifications, and treating micro-credentials as shared tools we develop and use together.

“In an era defined by digital transformation, increased digitalisation, the use of general artificial intelligence, global workforce mobility, and the need for continuous learning, micro-credentials have emerged as a flexible and powerful educational tool.”