The Commonwealth is doing something

In December Acting Education Minister Stuart Robert announced $32m for “a systemic approach to deliver micro-credentials in the university sector” (CMM December 8). This was intended to demonstrate, cynics suggest, that the government wants to be seen to be doing something and to prod universities into action.

Mr Robert had another go last week, including $5m, to cover the HECS cost for students taking an m-c, in a routine HE bill introduced into parliament. “This will encourage student interest in micro-credential courses, incentivising providers and industry to participate,” the explanatory memorandum states.

Not many students and not much incentive – but at least it means there will be people ready to trial m-cs, if and when providers get around to offering and marketing more.