Erasmus, a program named after the sixteenth-century humanist Erasmus of Rotterdam, is set to bring valuable opportunities to both British and European youth, contributing to the enrichment and strengthening of our societies. The recent agreement for the United Kingdom to join Erasmus+ as a partner country in 2027 fulfills a longstanding wish expressed by young people on both sides of the English Channel.
This association goes beyond traditional university exchanges, offering a wide range of prospects in vocational training, sports, school education, and adult learning for individuals in the UK and the EU. Erasmus+ signifies a deep-rooted European tradition of learning, openness, and cultural exchange. It was established in 1987 through collaborative efforts, including those of Dr. Hywel Ceri Jones, a Welshman who played a pivotal role as the European Commission’s Director for Education, Training, and Youth during Erasmus’ inception.
Over the years, Erasmus+ has evolved to emphasize social inclusion, green initiatives, and digital transitions, ensuring broader access for individuals with limited opportunities. Central to Erasmus+ is mobility, enabling students, apprentices, teachers, and youth workers from the UK to engage in activities abroad, thereby enhancing their employability. The program has significantly increased opportunities for vocational training learners and now also supports mobility for UK school pupils, facilitating experiences both for individuals and entire classes.
Furthermore, Erasmus+ fosters scientific collaborations between UK institutions and their European counterparts, reinforcing the UK’s involvement in Horizon Europe. Notably, the program encourages young people’s active participation in democratic processes by funding youth-led initiatives at local and transnational levels.
The commitment to Erasmus+ has been met following collaborative efforts between the EU and the UK, aligning with the desires of young people, educators, and civil society members across the UK. Additionally, agreements made during the recent summit are progressing swiftly, with exploratory discussions paving the way for UK involvement in the EU’s internal electricity market, which aims to enhance energy security and unlock substantial investment opportunities. These developments serve to bring societies closer together and promote European solidarity in addressing the significant challenges facing the continent.