Strategies for the Propagation of Micro-credentials in the Economy of Zimbabwe by Institutions of Higher Education/Learning and Training

Abstract

The study sought to recommend appropriate strategies for the propagation of micro-credentials that would positively influence economic growth using micro-credentials to provide knowledge and skills training. The thrust was to establish the state of micro-credentials in Zimbabwe and how they could be implemented to advantage. An interpretivist philosophy informed the choice of a qualitative paradigm and a case study design. Two institutions of higher learning and training were selected and, from each institution a team of six was purposively selected because of their superior knowledge in the matters of university business. A series of in-depth interviews was held to elicit the requisite information until a point of saturation was reached. The findings indicated that Zimbabwe and most African nations, needed to speed up the process of adopting and implementing micro-credentials. The strategies they could utilise included the use of online courses already accredited to kick-start the offering of micro-credentials, the creation and upholding regulations that catalysed the provision of micro-credentials, and the opening of identified opportunities to adopt and use micro credentials. The study ended with a recommendation to use an ACQF-II (2024) produced Handbook on Micro-credentials in Africa as resource material and a conclusion.