The lifelong learning rate among Irish adults was 12% in 2022 – far from the target of 64.2% set by Taoiseach Simon Harris when he served as Minister for Further and Higher Education. The goal is part of the European Pillar of Social Rights Action Plan. In this context, micro-credentials were developed. These skills-focused, university-accredited courses are typically between six to 12 weeks long, and are available mainly online. Some courses are available as a hybrid option with some elements taking place in-person. “Micro-credentials are a flexible option for people in the workforce to upskill or re-skill.
