Sharing Icelandic Expertise on Recognition of Prior Learning in the Balkans

Between November 19 and November 22, a team from the University of Akureyri travelled to Albania to meet with partners across the Balkans and exchange experiences on the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). The visit was part of a collaborative project aimed at developing and strengthening systems that acknowledge informal and non-formal learning, helping learners receive credit for their existing skills and experience.

During the visit, our team shared insights from the pioneering work done in Iceland to recognise and shorten study paths for individuals with prior or informal experience. The discussions focused on practical approaches to integrating RPL within higher education frameworks and improving accessibility for diverse learners.

Composed of Anna Karen Úlfarsdóttir, Heiða Kristín Jónsdóttir, Markus Meckl and Stéphanie Barillé, the team was warmly hosted in Tirana by colleagues from University College Logos, and took part in productive exchanges with partners from Albania, Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Greece, and Estonia. This three-year project aims to increase international cooperation and innovation in education by promoting flexible learning pathways and inclusive recognition systems across Europe and beyond.