The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a proposal to formulate a National Policy and Framework on Micro-Credentials in partnership with the Commonwealth of Learning, the government announced on Tuesday (April 28). The framework is intended to strengthen Sri Lanka’s higher education and technical and vocational training systems.
Micro-credentials are short, targeted qualifications certifying specific skills or competencies, separate from full degrees. The government said they are internationally recognised as an effective mechanism for promoting lifelong learning, raising workforce skills, and improving employability as labour markets adapt to rapid technological change.
A national framework, officials said, is needed to ensure that Sri Lankan qualifications are internationally comparable and recognised, particularly as more learners pursue cross-border employment and further study. A workshop will be held in Colombo in May 2026 to develop the Terms of Reference for the initiative.
The proposal was presented by Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya in her capacity as Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education. The agreement covers the development and implementation of the policy and framework, with the Commonwealth of Learning providing full financial support.
The Commonwealth of Learning, headquartered in Vancouver, is an intergovernmental organisation set up by Commonwealth Heads of Government to promote and develop distance learning and open-learning resources across member states.
The micro-credentials decision follows other education-sector moves this month, including the University Grants Commission’s release of its 2025/26 admissions handbook covering 176,527 eligible candidates.
Source: Newswire.
