COL is leading a strategic initiative to develop a Commonwealth Framework for Micro-credentials, advancing more flexible, recognised and inclusive learning pathways across Member States.

COL defines a micro-credential as:

“Digital credential awarded for shorter learning experiences – including courses – that show a record of focused learning achievement and verify what the learner knows, understands, or can do. This includes credentials awarded by a trusted provider and assessed in accordance with clearly defined outcomes and standards. A micro-credential has stand-alone value and may also contribute to or complement other micro-credentials or macro-credentials, including through recognition of prior learning. Micro-credentials must meet the standards established by the relevant quality assurance agency.” (COL, 2025)

In a rapidly evolving digital age, micro-credentials offer learners valuable opportunities to gain certified skills and competencies through shorter learning experiences that can support employment, further study and lifelong learning.

This project reflects COL’s commitment to expanding access to quality learning through collaboration, innovation and the effective use of technology. It also supports greater transparency, portability and recognition of learning across diverse education and training systems in the Commonwealth.

The project has three phases:

1. Research, consultations and framework development
2. Consultant capacity building (done at the Eleventh Pan-Commonwealth Forum on Open Learning in Botswana in September 2025) and national/regional framework development (ongoing in Eswatini, Kenya, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Sri Lanka and the Caribbean)
3. Institutional implementation, where 10 institutions will be supported to develop at least 10 micro-credentials in 2026/2027

The project has already produced two major outputs: Towards a Micro-credential Framework for the Commonwealth report and the Commonwealth Micro-credential Framework for Lifelong Learning. Together, they provide a strong foundation for integrating micro-credentials into education and skills systems, with emphasis on quality assurance, recognition of prior learning, digital interoperability and learner-centred design.

The Commonwealth Micro-credential Framework for Lifelone Learning was shaped through research, stakeholder surveys and regional consultations involving governments, qualification and quality assurance agencies, educational institutions and industry representatives. As a result, the Framework responds to shared priorities and adapts to national and institutional contexts.

Through this work, COL is supporting Commonwealth Member States in strengthening qualifications recognition, promoting workforce development, and expanding opportunities for lifelong learning.

For more information see:

Rossiter, D., & Tynan, B. (2019). Designing and implementing micro-credentials: A guide for practitioners. Commonwealth of Learning.

Olivier, J., Agbu, J.-F., Moore, S., Mishra, S., Ogange, B., Mukama, E., & Okinda, R. (2025). Towards a Commonwealth credit transfer framework for micro-credentials: Advancing education for a more resilient workforce.

T. Mays & E. Mukama (Eds.), Innovative open education: Fostering resilient societies for sustainable economic development: Conference proceedings – PCF11 selected papers (pp. 225–236).