HEC launches Operational Guide to strengthen Academia–Industry co-designed micro-credentials

Various stakeholders from government, the higher education institutions’ sector, professional bodies, and regulatory bodies as well as international experts came together at a workshop organised, today, by the Higher Education Commission (HEC), in Ebène, to discuss the operationalisation of academia-industry co-design micro-credentials in Mauritius including workforce responsiveness, industry engagement, stackability, recognition pathways and implementation arrangements.

The booklet entitled ‘An Operational Guide for Academia - Industry Co-Designed Micro-Credential for Higher Education in Mauritius’ was also launched. The document builds upon the national micro-credentials initiative launched by the HEC and reflects lessons learned from pilot academia–industry partnerships implemented across strategic sectors including finance, information technology, human resources, nursing and tourism.

The booklet provides practical guidance on the co-design, development, delivery and recognition of micro-credentials that address emerging workforce needs and support lifelong learning by establishing a framework through which higher education institutions and employers can work together to identify skills gaps, develop relevant learning opportunities, and strengthen graduate employability.

The opening ceremony of the two-day workshop was attended by the Minister of Tertiary Education, Science and Research, Dr Kaviraj Sharma Sukon; the Chairperson of the HEC Board, Dr Ashveen K. Kissoonah; the Commissioner of the HEC, Prof. (Dr) Mrs Romeela Mohee; and other personalities.

In his address, the Minister recalled the journey that has led to the current Phase III of the national initiative to standardise and expand the use of micro-credentials in higher education in Mauritius. He highlighted that the initiative seeks to reduce the mismatch between labour market demand and the supply of skills and ensure that students acquire the competencies required to enhance their employability.

According to Dr Sukon, when the Higher Education Act was amended in 2025 to formally include micro-credentials in the legislation, the objective was to ensure access to high-quality programmes for students and professionals alike, while enabling universities to produce graduates equipped with strong foundational knowledge and relevant skills. He thus urged participants of the workshop to work for an appropriate regulatory framework and enabling environment to be put in place to support the successful implementation of micro-credentials.

While expressing his appreciation for the support of the private sector, the Minister called on heads of higher education institutions to strengthen collaboration between academia and industry particularly regarding the development of academic programmes and micro-credentials, the conduct of research, and the identification of practical solutions to address national challenges.

25 June 2026

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Topics: Education, Employment