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Microcredentials for youth and work Microcredentials for youth and work

This report examines the value of alternative learning opportunities that lead to microcredentials, with a focus on youth, as a flexible and cost-effective way of acquiring skills and validating competencies to enhance signalling mechanisms among jobseekers and workers. It provides an analysis of the current global debate on microcredentials, including their benefits, challenges and potential impact on the labour market. Based on four illustrative cases — from a national system in India to sectoral use in health, private sector engagement by Microsoft and a platform-led approach through UNICEF’s Yoma — the report highlights the usage of microcredentials by governments, companies, international organisations and non-profit actors. The report offers policy recommendations aimed at improving the design, implementation and governance of microcredentials to better support youth transitions into decent work. This report is the culmination of a collective effort by the ILO and UNICEF, supported by the multi-stakeholder initiatives Decent Jobs for Youth and Generation Unlimited. The study benefited greatly from the experience and contributions of various governments, businesses, international organisations, and civil society organisations. JET's James Keevy, Kelly Shiohira, Patrick Molokwane, Lungelo Mthembu-Slater, Zaahedah Vally, Wamweni Shamambo, and Carla Pereira contributed to the report.