Analyses
Social inclusion, tolerance, acceptance and realisation for all students
Desk research on a methodology of elaboration of quality assurance indicators and indicators on social inclusion of students from vulnerable groups, with emphasis on the migrants and disabled students Report 1
This study examines existing European policies, approaches and good practices regarding social inclusion in higher education, with a particular focus on migrant students and students with disabilities. The report analyses key documents such as the Rome Communiqué (2020), the results of the EUA INVITED project, and the U-Multirank guidelines for the development of relevant and comparable indicators.
On this basis, a multi-factor methodological framework for the development of indicators is proposed, which takes into account the type of beneficiaries, the stages of the educational process (access, participation, completion), the nature of the measures (direct or indirect) and the level of implementation. Concrete examples of indicators relevant to the needs of migrant students and students with disabilities are included, as well as suggestions for their structuring and use in the practice of universities and quality assurance agencies.
The report aims to support the development of sustainable and inclusive policies in higher education in Europe, based on the principles of equality, equity, diversity and inclusion.
Developing and testing pilot mechanisms for integrating microcertification and prior learning into higher education
The paper provides a comprehensive overview of the development, integration and testing of micro-qualifications in higher education systems. It outlines key international trends, highlights the growing importance of micro-qualifications in the context of a changing labour market, and presents the European Union’s strategic framework for ensuring quality, transparency and recognition across Member States.
The report introduces practical tools to support universities in designing and implementing micro-qualifications programmes, including a structured design grid and a detailed 12-step implementation checklist. It also looks at international case studies – such as the Australian higher education micro-qualifications pilot project – to illustrate how different systems are embracing flexible and buildable learning pathways.
Particular attention is paid to mechanisms for validating prior learning, including for vulnerable and non-traditional groups of learners. The paper also includes an accompanying research instrument – a questionnaire for university lecturers, which measures attitudes towards micro-qualifications and the recognition of prior experience. In summary, the report provides a strategic framework for institutions that wish to modernize their curricula, expand access, and align education more closely with changing societal and market needs.
Recognition of best practices for prior learning in the European area and validation methodology
The paper presents an overview of good practices in the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) in the European Higher Education Area. It analyses policy frameworks, European standards and the development of validation mechanisms, outlining key trends and challenges for universities and higher education institutions.
The report examines established models of assessment and recognition of prior learning from different countries, focusing on successful practices that ensure quality, transparency and equal access for learners from different backgrounds. The paper also includes a summary of the main elements of effective RPL systems – from identification of evidence to assessment, documentation and final recognition.
In addition to the comparative analysis, the paper also offers a detailed methodology for the validation of prior learning that can be applied by universities in the process of modernising their recognition policies. This methodology is designed to facilitate institutions in introducing more flexible learning paths and to support expanding access to higher education for non-traditional and vulnerable groups.
Updating the legislative framework and orienting System for accumulation and transfer of credits Toward learning outcomes
The document presents a draft for updating the legislative framework governing the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) in higher education in Bulgaria. Its main objective is to introduce micro-qualifications, micro-credits, and micro-credentials into the national system.
The proposed changes shift the focus toward learning outcomes, emphasizing the knowledge, skills, and competences acquired rather than the duration of study. They enable more flexible learning pathways, including short courses that can award up to 30 ECTS credits.
The document also regulates the validation of prior learning, including learning acquired outside formal education, and introduces micro-credentials as an official academic document. The amendments are aligned with European policies on lifelong learning and the principles of the European Higher Education Area.
Annexes:
Justification to the proposed law amending and supplementing the Higher Education Act
Proposals for exemplary amendments to the Higher Education Act
Analysis of the NQF in the part for HE
The document provides an analysis of the alignment between the Bulgarian National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) in the field of higher education. It examines levels 6, 7, and 8 (Bachelor, Master, and Doctorate) and confirms their full consistency with European standards in terms of learning outcomes.
A key focus is placed on the role of micro-credits and micro-qualifications as tools for flexible learning pathways, skills development, and labour market adaptation. The report also outlines European best practices and offers recommendations for integrating micro-credentials into the Bulgarian system through legislative updates, the development of a national platform, and stronger engagement with employers.
Policy Paper
This policy paper outlines strategic recommendations for the development of higher education within the European Higher Education Area (EHEA). The focus is on the integrated use of micro-credentials, the validation of prior learning outcomes, and the systematic strengthening of the social dimension.The document addresses structural challenges such as demographic decline and the need for closer links with the labour market. A central recommendation is the establishment of a predictable regulatory framework that recognizes micro-credentials and validation as legitimate academic practices while respecting institutional autonomy. It emphasizes using these tools to reduce educational inequalities for non-traditional learners, including students with disabilities, migrants, and refugees.