E. Krmac
The University of Ljubljana (UL) has launched a comprehensive institutional reform project called UL for a Sustainable Society – ULTRA. This project is co-financed by the European Union and the Republic of Slovenia as part of the Recovery and Resilience Plan. One of its eleven interdisciplinary pilots is the Lifelong Project-Based e-Learning initiative, which focuses on developing innovative digital learning environments that connect teaching, research and real-world challenges through project-based learning (PBL). Coordinated by five UL faculties, the pilot aims to promote active learning, cross-disciplinary collaboration and the development of practical skills for sustainable and digital transformation.
As part of this initiative, the university has also introduced a system of micro-credentials covering the entire institution, supporting flexible and modular lifelong learning paths in line with EU and UNESCO recommendations. This system guarantees transparent quality assurance, standardisation and alignment with the Slovenian and European Qualifications Frameworks (SOK/EQF).
A concrete educational innovation emerging from this pilot is the Smart Tools for Transport and Logistics elective course at the Faculty of Maritime Studies and Transport. Designed through project-based and problem-oriented e-learning, this course uses ICT tools, data analysis and optimisation methods to solve real transport and logistics problems. Building on the success of this course, a certified micro-credential titled 'Forecasting in Transport and Logistics Using Software Tools' has been developed, enabling professionals and students to develop targeted skills in data-driven decision-making for sustainable mobility.
Thus, the ULTRA project contributes to the modernisation of higher education by introducing project-based e-learning methodologies, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and establishing a framework for quality-assured micro-credentials that support lifelong learning and employability in a sustainable digital society.
Keywords: ULTRA project, University of Ljubljana, lifelong learning, project-based e-learning, micro-credentials, smart logistics, sustainable education, digital transformation.