CESAER, the association of Europe’s leading universities of science and technology, has published a position paper with key recommendations to shape Erasmus+ for 2028–2034, under the title ‘Erasmus+ for a prosperous, resilient and skilled Europe through science and technology’.
The paper aims to offer guidance to ensure Erasmus+ remains a world-leading programme for education, training, mobility and cooperation in science and technology and beyond.
The paper sets out key recommendations in five areas:
- a bold budget increase;
- unlocking the full potential of joint programmes and alliances;
- connecting the knowledge triangle;
- call for simplification;
- strengthen international cooperation.
With regard to “connecting the knowledge triangle”, CESAER recommends “bridging research and education for a competitive and prosperous Europe”, including recommendations to:
- “Position the fifth freedom of the Letta report at the heart of a long-term strategic framework for skills development that systematically connects research, innovation, and education, driving Europe’s swift realisation of the fifth freedom as an enabler for reinforcing Europe’s global position in future-proof skills and education in advanced science and technologies.
- Leverage the essential role of universities of science and technology in strengthening the knowledge triangle, and create enabling frameworks that support their excellence in research-based education, innovation, industry collaboration, and knowledge transfer.
- Develop Erasmus+ pathways—including through Cooperation Partnerships, alliances, and similar programmes, especially with key players in the science, engineering and technology sectors—to integrate Horizon Europe research outcomes into education and training, building on existing mechanisms.
- Establish a dedicated category to support mobility for research-based education for students, including graduate and PhD candidates, to strengthen links between education and research. Ensure the attractiveness and adequacy of mobility grants for research students, ensuring they can fully participate in international research opportunities and focus on driving breakthrough discoveries.”
https://www.cesaer.org/content/5-operations/2025/20250623-cesaer-position-erasmus.pdf