The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) and the Commonwealth of Learning (COL) have urged regulatory agencies to create structured policies and guidelines to support the development and implementation of micro-credentials in Nigeria’s education system.
This call was made during a capacity-building workshop held in Abuja under the theme “Developing Micro-Credentials Transfer in a Digital Age.” The workshop was organised by COL in partnership with NOUN’s Regional Training and Research Institute for Distance and Open Learning (RETRIDOL).
Micro-credentials are short, skill-focused certifications that offer a more flexible and targeted alternative to traditional degrees. They are designed to equip individuals with specific competencies relevant to today’s evolving job market.
Declaring the workshop open, NOUN Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olufemi Peters, highlighted how micro-credentials are changing the face of education by promoting the acquisition of targeted skills rather than long-form academic qualifications. He said the model supports employability, lifelong learning, and greater access to education.
“Micro-credentialing is an innovative approach that places emphasis on demonstrable skills and industry relevance. It offers learners flexible, personalised pathways to education, often in collaboration with industry players,” Peters stated.
He called on regulatory bodies, including the National Universities Commission (NUC), to adopt national standards and frameworks that align with the country’s educational development goals.
Also speaking at the event, the Director of RETRIDOL, Prof. Christine Ofulue, noted that micro-credentials have the potential to improve learner mobility, promote personalised learning, and enable international recognition of qualifications. She emphasised the importance of African countries developing their own policies and frameworks to guide implementation.
“This workshop highlights RETRIDOL’s leadership in advancing innovative learning solutions. It is essential that our region defines clear strategies to ensure micro-credentials are effective and relevant,” she said.
COL’s Adviser on Higher Education, Prof. Jane-Frances Agbu, underscored the importance of micro-credentials in enabling quick upskilling and reskilling in an increasingly dynamic job market. She noted that they are vital for keeping pace with technological and industry changes.
In his remarks, ECOWAS Commission’s Director of Education, Science and Culture, Dr Roland Kouakou, expressed confidence in micro-credentials as a tool for increasing access to education and preparing learners for the jobs of the future.
President of the Open and Distance e-Learning Association of Nigeria (ODeLAN), Prof. Francis Egbokhare, called for a focus on practical implementation, urging policymakers to draw lessons from global best practices.
The workshop brought together participants from across West and Central Africa, including delegates from Ghana, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Cameroon, and Nigeria.
