Developed jointly by the UNESCO Centre for Innovation in Higher Education and the International Institute for Online Education (IIOE), this project is a prime example of a mechanism that empowers higher education professionals worldwide to enhance their skills.

Project Objectives: This project aims to provide higher education professionals with flexible and customized skills enhancement programs; develop adaptable definitions and assessment standards for digital competence; create curricula and resource repositories that support professional development; and promote digital competence building as an important component of professional development through policy advocacy.

Course Content: The course is designed around the "Digital Teaching Competency Framework," covering modules such as access to teaching resources, digital teaching methods, blended learning design, teaching research, and AI literacy. The course is characterized by its short duration, high efficiency, and support for multilingual learning.

Certificates and Recognition: Upon completion of the course, participants will receive a micro-certificate issued by IIOE. Formal recognition of the micro-certificate requires the support of institutions, management organizations, or relevant national departments. IIOE promotes localized recognition of these micro-certificates through collaboration with innovation centers, partners, and local education management departments.

Resources and Development: The IIOE Microcertificate Program currently comprises four modules: Digital Competency Courses, Generative Artificial Intelligence Courses, Vocational and Technical Education Courses, and Enterprise Microcertificate Courses. In 2025, IIOE will continue to advance its "AI + Subject" series of courses and design AI-specific learning paths covering fundamental theory, practical skills, and innovative applications.

Implementation Framework: The project is based on the "Reference Framework for Digital Competencies of Higher Education Teaching Staff" jointly developed by IIOE and East China Normal University, constructing a diverse curriculum system and continuously iterating AI-related content. Universities can use this framework to determine their required competencies and use or collaborate to develop localized courses.