UPOU takes part in MICROCASA International Conference 2026

The University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) participated in the MICROCASA International Conference 2026, held on 3-4 February 2026 at the Universiti Sains Malaysia, marking the final major activity of the MICROCASA Project (Micro-credentials for Life-long Learning and Employability: Building Capacities for Developing Agile Educational Interventions in Southeast Asian Universities).

The conference gathered educators, researchers, policymakers, and project partners to discuss developments in micro-credentials, digital education, and lifelong learning. As the concluding event of the European Union-funded project, the conference served as a venue for sharing project outcomes and reflecting on future directions for micro-credentials in Southeast Asia.

UPOU Research Presentations

UPOU contributed to the conference through two paper presentations delivered in parallel sessions, covering different applications of micro-credentials in health and digital workforce development.

Ms. Macahiya presents her paper during the Parallel Session 2. (Photo from Jacob Carpio)

During Parallel Session 2, Sydney Rovin Macahiya, University Research Associate, presented the paper “Transforming the Digital Workplace Competency Training (DWCT) Microcredential through CoDe-Graph Mapping and Learner-Centered Evaluation.” The presentation showed how MOOCs and micro-credentials can complement each other in building digital skills, using MOOCs to reach diverse learners at scale, and micro-credentials to provide a clearer structure and recognized outcomes. Drawing from learner feedback and evaluation data, the study demonstrated how the DWCT MOOC was redesigned into a more focused, competency-aligned micro-credential. CoDe-Graph mapping helped clarify learning pathways, while alignment with the European Union’s DigComp framework ensured that the course addressed internationally recognized digital competencies.

Dr. Oruga discusses how micro-credentials embedded in digital health systems can support chronic disease prevention and management. (Photo from Jacob Carpio)

Dr. Myra Oruga, Professor and Assistant to the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (Research) also presented her paper titled “Strengthening Chronic Disease Prevention and Management Through Microcredentials: A Digital Health Systems Approach Aligned with Universal Health Coverage.” The paper discussed how micro-credentials embedded in digital health systems can support chronic disease prevention and management while contributing to Universal Health Coverage (UHC). It highlighted how micro-credentials can expand access to training and care, particularly in resource-constrained settings, while also identifying challenges related to quality assurance, credential recognition, and regulatory integration.

Policy Panel Participation

Panel Session II panelists on Sustainability and Digital Transformation at the MICROCASA International Conference 2026. Photo from USM.

In addition to research presentations, UPOU also took part in the conference’s policy discussions. Dr. Joane Serrano, Chancellor of UPOU served as a panelist in Panel Session II: Sustainability and Digital Transformation, together with other MICROCASA partners from Southeast Asia.

The second panel focused on how digital transformation and micro-credentials can support reskilling and upskilling, promote inclusive access to education, and respond to workforce needs, while maintaining academic quality and alignment with labor market demands.

Strengthening Regional Collaboration

Across keynote sessions, panel discussions, and parallel presentations, the conference highlighted micro-credentials as a practical approach to building more agile, inclusive, and sustainable education systems in Southeast Asia. Participants also expressed interest in continuing collaboration beyond the formal conclusion of the MICROCASA project.

UPOU’s participation in the MICROCASA International Conference 2026 reaffirmed the university’s commitment to advancing flexible, learner-centered education and contributing research-based insights to regional and international discussions on micro-credentials and lifelong learning.

MICROCASA Core Team. Photo from USM.

Written by Sydney Macahiya | Edited by Anna Cañas-Llamas