ISUFST expands micro-credential push at national conference

PASAY CITY — Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology strengthened its push for lifelong learning and micro-credential development as its representatives joined the First Annual Conference and General Assembly of the Association of Micro-Credential Council Philippines on Sept. 11–12 at the SMX Convention Center Manila.

The two-day conference brought together education leaders, policymakers, and practitioners to examine how micro-credentials can provide shorter, competency-based, flexible, and stackable learning pathways that respond to changing workforce and learner needs.

Micro-credentials generally recognize specific skills or competencies and can complement traditional degree programs by allowing learners to build qualifications through smaller, focused courses or training programs.

Representing ISUFST were Stephen Jinon, vice president for academic affairs and AMCP auditor; Joan Mondero Belga, university micro-credential coordinator and AMCP vice president; and Ian John M. Galupar, director of the Adult Education/Lifelong Learning Program and an AMCP member.

Eiji Tomida of Ehime University in Japan discussed Japanese approaches to micro-competency and how smaller, focused learning achievements can complement conventional qualifications.

Commission on Higher Education Commissioner Michelle A. Ong described micro-credentials as an emerging “currency” in the labor market and discussed their implications for the future of Philippine higher education.

Greg Tabios Pawilen of the University of the Philippines Los Baños focused on the shift from completing prescribed course content toward demonstrating competency and mastery.

Mapúa University President Dodjie Maestrecampo discussed the changing role of universities, including the redesign of degree programs and the future of higher education.

University of the Philippines Open University Chancellor Joanne V. Serrano discussed career pathways and the role of open and borderless learning in expanding access to education throughout a person’s life.

Cristina E. Rotairo of CHED presented the Philippine micro-credential landscape and efforts to develop stackable credentials.

Julius Somera of the Department of Education emphasized the importance of credible assessment, appropriate rubrics, micro-evidence, and recognition of prior learning in building trust in micro-credentials.

Conference discussions emphasized that education systems must accommodate learners of different ages, circumstances, and career stages while maintaining academic and competency standards.

For ISUFST, the conference provided policy perspectives and practical approaches that could support its programs in adult education, lifelong learning, and micro-credentials.

The university said the insights could help guide the development of accessible learning opportunities for people seeking to upskill, reskill, or continue their education outside conventional degree programs.

The Office of Adult Education/Lifelong Learning Program credited University President Nordy D. Siason Jr., Vice President for Academic Affairs Stephen Jinon, and Vice President for Administration and Finance Jescel Boglosa Bito-Onon for supporting the university’s efforts to expand lifelong learning opportunities.

ISUFST said evolving professions, technologies, and workplaces are increasing the need for education systems to provide credible pathways that allow people to continue developing skills beyond their first degree or qualification.

The university said micro-credentials and lifelong learning programs can help provide those pathways by giving learners more flexible options to acquire and demonstrate new competencies throughout their careers. (Ian John Galupar | Herman Lagon | OAELL | PAMMCO)