Released on December 2, 2021
The Government of Saskatchewan is supporting the use of micro-credentials by releasing Saskatchewan's Guide to Micro-credentials. Micro-credentials can help build a skilled workforce that meets the needs of the province's growing economy and Growth Plan priorities.
"Saskatchewan's Growth Plan has identified micro-credential programming as an opportunity to advance our post-secondary education and labour market priorities," Advanced Education Minister Gene Makowsky said. "Micro-credentials enable learners to gain new skills quickly to meet the workforce needs of employers and industry partners."
Micro-credentials are short, focused programs that provide students with skills and competencies relevant to the labour market and encourage lifelong learning. Post-secondary institutions can ensure learners have access to quality, relevant micro-credentials by collaborating with employers and industry groups to identify current gaps in the labour force and developing the programming to meet those needs.
"Micro-credentials are an ideal option for businesses looking to train new staff or help current employees upskill without breaking the bank or leaving them shorthanded," Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce CEO Steve McLellan said. "Continuous learning, upskilling and reskilling are increasingly important considerations for attracting and retaining skilled workers. Businesses and employers can work directly with Saskatchewan's post-secondary institutions to create custom programming that helps fill gaps in shorter timeframes."
Post-secondary education institutions and employers are embracing micro-credentials as an important tool to provide flexible, innovative learning opportunities to support Saskatchewan's labour market. The new guide was developed in collaboration with the post-secondary sector, to help learners, institutions, employers, and industry groups understand the benefits and opportunities micro-credentials provide.
"First Nations University of Canada's development of several new micro-credentials is a step toward providing new opportunities for learning and filling gaps in the workforce when it comes to Indigenous knowledge and perspectives," First Nations University of Canada Vice President Academic Dr. Bob Kayseas said.
Micro-credentials are presently offered through the University of Regina's Continuing Education Centre and Saskatchewan Polytechnic's Surge program. First Nations University of Canada will be launching several new micro-credentials by the new year through the FNUniv Indigenous Continuing Education Centre (ICEC). The Ministry of Advanced Education is supporting the First Nations University of Canada as they develop their popular 4 Seasons of Reconciliation course into a micro-credential.
To learn more about micro-credentials in Saskatchewan, visit https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/education-and-learning/microcredentials-in-saskatchewan.
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For more information, contact
Briana Bolduc
Advance Education
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0253
Email: briana.bolduc@gov.sk.ca