On 18 February 2026, we had the pleasure to contribute to the Fourth Global Policy Dialogue (GPD) of the Bologna Process, held in Rome and online on 17–18 February 2026 and showcase the outcomes of ASEFInnoLab6. The event, organised under the framework of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), brought together policymakers, higher education leaders, and international organisations to strengthen cooperation and trust across global regions through the internationalisation of higher education.

ASEF was represented online by Réka Tózsa, Director of the Education Department, who introduced key outcomes of the latest edition of the ASEF Higher Education Innovation Laboratory (ASEFInnoLab6), with a particular focus on its Micro-credentials Programme Track.

For more information about the event and and to learn more about the global state of LLL, flexible pathways, and micro-credentials, visit the EHEA webpage dedicated to the event.

Strengthening Global Dialogue on the Future of Skills

The Global Policy Dialogue serves as a platform for exchanging perspectives on shared higher education challenges across regions. This year’s discussions highlighted the growing importance of flexible learning pathways, skills-based education, and micro-credentials in responding to rapid technological transformation, particularly in the context of artificial intelligence (AI).

ASEF’s contribution aligned closely with these priorities by showcasing practical, collaborative approaches to developing future-ready skills through international partnerships.

ASEFInnoLab6: Universities’ Role in an AI-Powered Future

Established in 2021, ASEFInnoLab brings together higher education stakeholders from Asia and Europe to exchange knowledge, build networks, and co-create solutions addressing the role of universities in AI innovation ecosystems.

The 2026 edition of ASEFInnoLab focused on the theme: “Universities’ Role in Developing Skills for an AI-Powered Future”

Participating academics reflected on the urgent need for universities to:

• anticipate emerging skills demands
• design inclusive and accessible learning pathways, and
• bridge academic knowledge with real-world applications.

ASEFInnoLab6 engaged 216 participants from 39 countries across Asia and Europe, demonstrating the scale and diversity of collaboration required to address global skills challenges.

Spotlight: Micro-credentials for the AI Era

A central focus of the presentation at the Global Policy Dialogue was the ASEFInnoLab6 Micro-credentials Programme Track, which explored how short, flexible learning programmes can equip learners with relevant AI-related competencies.

The track was designed with three key objectives:

• raising awareness of micro-credentials as tools for AI skills development,
• equipping institutions with practical know-how to design quality-assured programmes, and
• fostering collaboration between Asian and European higher education institutions.

Through a structured, multi-phase process, including online learning, team collaboration, expert mentoring, and in-person workshops, participants developed seven joint micro-credential course prototypes in multidisciplinary, intercultural teams, addressing the following topics

• Micro-Credential for Real-Life Learning, Supporting Lifelong Learners Beyond the Classroom
• Creativity in the Era of AI: Changing Education and Employer Paradigm
• Universities Accelerating Digital Research
• AI & Digital Ethics: A Micro-credential Program for Responsible Innovation & Trustworthy AI
• Digital Transformation and Industry 5.0: A Joint Contribution from Asian and European Aul (Augmented Intelligence)
• Fraud Risk Management: Theory and Practice in the AI-Powered Higher Education Environment
• Incorporating AI Tools in Teaching and Assessment

A key message from ASEF was the importance of cross-continental peer learning activities, and that the ASEFInnoLab6 Micro-credentials Track demonstrated how:

• interdisciplinary and intercultural collaboration can generate innovative educational solutions,
• micro-credentials can respond rapidly to evolving labour market needs, and
• universities can play a central role in lifelong learning and reskilling.

ASEF also shared that participants highlighted the value of hands-on collaboration, peer learning, and international exchange in designing impactful programmes. The initiative also contributes to the growing AE4AI Network, which now connects over 200 higher education professionals working on AI-related education topics.

Looking Ahead

ASEF’s participation in the EHEA Global Policy Dialogue reinforces its role as a bridge between Asia and Europe in shaping the future of higher education.

As global interest in micro-credentials continues to grow, initiatives such as ASEFInnoLab6 provide valuable models for how collaborative, international efforts can translate policy priorities into tangible educational solutions.