Sharjah Maritime Academy (SMA) has initiated a significant advancement in its digital transformation by introducing micro-credentials through Educhain’s blockchain platform. This new initiative enables students to earn verifiable digital certifications for specialized skills and achievements, thereby enhancing their employability and academic profiles.

The introduction of micro-credentials aligns with SMA’s vision of a tech-driven and skills-focused education system. It ensures that students can securely display their competencies in a tamper-proof digital format. These credentials can be shared easily on professional networks like LinkedIn, allowing students to present their accomplishments to a global audience.

As the demand for skill-based education continues to increase, micro-credentials are becoming an essential solution for students and professionals seeking to upskill. In contrast to traditional degrees, these micro-credentials emphasize specific skills, certifications, and short-term learning achievements, making them particularly relevant in today’s fast-changing job market. By leveraging Educhain’s blockchain platform, SMA guarantees that each certificate is instantly verifiable, secure, and easily shareable, thus reducing the need for manual verification and protecting against document fraud.

Educhain, a trusted provider for top universities in the region, offers a scalable solution for institutions wishing to modernize their credentialing systems. Their Hyperledger Fabric-based technology allows for the secure digital issuance of degrees, transcripts, student ID cards, and now, micro-credentials. Gary Liang, Director at Educhain, stated that SMA’s adoption of micro-credentials reflects a progressive approach to education, providing students with industry-recognized certifications that are easily verifiable.

SMA has been committed to digital innovation since its inception, integrating advanced technologies to improve academic experiences. Located in the picturesque mountains of Sharjah, the academy is rapidly establishing itself as a leader in maritime education, dedicated to delivering competitive training programs. Dr. Hashim Al Zaabi, the Chancellor of SMA, has played a key role in promoting these advancements.

Mohammed Affan, IT Director at SMA, emphasized the importance of adapting to educational changes to ensure that students are competitive in the global workforce. He noted that micro-credentials serve as a bridge between academic learning and the requirements of the industry.

With this launch, Sharjah Maritime Academy joins a global trend of institutions that are utilizing digital credentialing to provide students with more flexible, credible, and career-focused learning opportunities. SMA’s partnership with Educhain establishes a new standard for secure, scalable, and skill-oriented education in the region.