ENHANCING THE ORGANIZATIONAL AND ECONOMIC FRAMEWORK FOR INTEGRATING MICRO-CREDENTIALS INTO HIGHER EDUCATION IN THE CONTEXT OF THE DIGITAL ECONOMY

Abstract

The rapid development of the digital economy has significantly transformed labor market requirements and educational paradigms worldwide. Traditional higher education systems are increasingly challenged to provide flexible, competency-based, and market-oriented learning opportunities. In this context, micro-credentials have emerged as an innovative mechanism for recognizing specific skills, competencies, and lifelong learning achievements. This study investigates the organizational and economic framework for integrating micro-credentials into higher education institutions within the digital economy. The research analyzes international experiences, identifies key implementation challenges, and proposes a comprehensive organizational-economic model that aligns educational outcomes with labor market demands. The findings demonstrate that micro-credentials contribute to educational flexibility, enhance graduate employability, support lifelong learning, and strengthen university-industry collaboration. Furthermore, the proposed framework provides strategic recommendations for policymakers and higher education institutions seeking to implement sustainable micro-credential systems.