The Rise Of Micro-Credentials In Higher Studies

Micro-credentials are changing the way we learn and build our careers

- ANINDITA ACHARYA

Let's say you have a master's degree in management but you're not exactly up to speed with the latest tech like blockchain, cloud computing, or AI. What's the way forward? Well, you can always sign up for a micro-credential program through an online tech platform. These short, focused courses are designed to complement your traditional degree and help you stay relevant in the job market.

Today's labor market is shifting rapidly towards skill-based hiring. With automation on the rise and AI changing the very nature of work, the kinds of jobs available and the skills they demand are evolving fast. This has created a widening gap between what employers need and what many candidates bring to the table. That's where micro-credentials come in. Micro-credentials tailored to specific sectors are now being added to academic curriculums, making them more job-ready and aligned with what employers are actually looking for.

These programs don't just focus on one type of learning. They're designed to build a solid mix of domain knowledge, technical skills, and soft skills—all of which are crucial in today's work environment. Plus, they're mapped to the National Credit Framework (NCF) and the National Skill Qualification Framework (NSQF), in line with the New Education Policy's (NEP 2020) goal of merging skills with mainstream education.