In November 2024 and February 2025, two study visits took place to Dublin, Ireland. These visits focused on the Irish implementation of micro-credentials and the promotion of lifelong learning.
The programme included visits to leading organisations such as SOLAS, Dublin City University, and City of Dublin FET College. Participants gained insight into how micro-credentials are successfully applied in Ireland to provide flexible education, in close collaboration with industry. Themes such as sustainable development, inner development goals, and future skills ran throughout the programme.
The Irish approach; where micro-credentials are widely recognised, funded, and designed based on labour market demand, offers valuable lessons for Dutch vocational education (mbo). At the same time, it raises questions about applicability within the Dutch context and the coherence of our national initiatives.
This visit highlighted how essential a joint and well-organised infrastructure is to shape personalised and adaptive education.
