The next Erasmus+ programme must be equipped with the budget, governance and predictability needed to continue delivering for learners, staff, institutions and society.
The European University Association and partners from across the European higher education sector have jointly reacted to a draft European Parliament report on the next Erasmus+ programme.
Continuing their joint advocacy on the future of this impactful, flagship EU programme, organisations representing Europe's universities and higher education institutions, student organisations and other key stakeholders welcome MEP Bogdan Zdrojewski’s draft report for the Parliament’s Committee on Culture and Education (CULT). Yet, reflecting on their suggested set amendments to the Commission proposal, their joint statement also urges the European Parliament to readjust the budget share that the document puts forward for education and training measures.
The draft report’s call for €47.39 billion for Erasmus+ under the EU’s next long-term budget (multiannual financial framework) is a welcome increase on the Commission’s proposal of €40.8 billion. Nonetheless, it still does not reach the 60 billion requested by the higher education sector itself and the at least €60 billion requested by the higher education sector. An investment is needed to expand the scope and actions of Erasmus+ in in line with the ambitions policy makers have outlined for the programme to contribute to building the Union of Skills and continue supporting the European Education Area. MEP Zdrojewski's report also proposes substantial synergies with other EU funding programmes, e.g. co-funding of the new scholarships in strategic educational fields by the European Competitiveness Fund, as well as for the European Universities alliances. This aligns with the calls of the higher education sector.