Towards a micro-credential country model for South Africa
Recognition of non-formal and informal skills for young people in Eastern and Southern Africa through the innovation of micro-credentials
Highlights
This research investigates current micro-credential projects and initiatives in the case study countries to formulate and design three country relevant micro-credential model based on practice-focused, actionable, scalable evidence to increase recognition of non-formal/informal skills development opportunities to facilitate transitions or unemployed youth into the labour market.
This research draws on the published terms of reference (ToR) and has been further refined through an inception workshop held with UNICEF country teams and the Nairobi office on 25 April 2023. The research is limited to Burundi, South Africa, and Uganda, and is inspired by an earlier global study on micro-credentials commissioned by the ILO and UNICEF which is due for public release in 2024.
In particular, the research explores how perspectives, expectations, and awareness of micro-credentials among young people, employers (labour demand), and labour market institutions are addressed through the proposed country micro-credential offerings by education and training providers (labour supply). It will address the potential challenges and opportunities associated with micro-credentials, with specific regional and country-level examples to the extent possible, particularly in the context of high youth unemployment in low- and middle income contexts.
Also see the Regional Think Piece: An overview of the current landscape and potential of micro-credentials in our region, including insights from the global and local implementation of micro-credentials, and key considerations and recommendations to guide practitioners and policymakers.
