The concern raised in the Forum letter “Skills push should include real work exposure” (April 10) – that certificates alone cannot substitute for employers’ confidence in what individuals can actually do – is an important one.

While employers understandably look for experience, in a skills-first economy, experience must be defined more broadly than previous job titles. It should also include validated capabilities demonstrated through life experiences, industry projects, workplace-based tasks or applied learning contexts. Broadening how experience is recognised is essential if skills are to function as a credible and inclusive currency.