The EU Aims for a More Mobile Generation by 2030: Here's How Erasmus+ Plays a Role

The European Union (EU) is taking a bold step towards fostering a more mobile and globally-minded generation. Their new initiative, "Europe on the Move," sets ambitious targets to significantly increase the number of young people participating in international learning experiences within the EU and beyond (https://www.coe.int/en/web/youth/youth-mobility).

Ambitious Goals for Increased Mobility:

The EU aims high with "Europe on the Move." By 2030, they want at least:

• 23% of university graduates
• 12% of vocational training (VET) students

to have an international learning experience. Additionally, by 2027, they aim for 20% of learners facing fewer opportunities to participate in mobility programs within the EU (ec.europa.eu).

The Need for Change:

This initiative addresses a clear need. Currently, only 15% of EU youth (aged 15-30) have participated in EU mobility programs, highlighting a significant gap between current participation and the desired future state (ec.europa.eu). Interestingly, a 2022 Eurobarometer survey revealed that other countries like Australia (24%) and the US (16%) boast higher participation rates for international learning experiences among undergraduates (https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/resources-and-tools/statistics-and-factsheets).

Erasmus+ Takes Center Stage:

The world's largest student exchange program, Erasmus+, stands as a key player in achieving these goals. In 2022 alone, Erasmus+ facilitated over 1.2 million learning experiences abroad with a budget of €4 billion, showcasing its impressive impact (ec.europa.eu).

Strategies for Success:

The European Commission outlines several strategies to help achieve these ambitious targets:

• Strengthening Language Learning: Language proficiency is a crucial barrier for international mobility (ec.europa.eu). The EU emphasizes enhancing language skills at all educational levels to overcome this hurdle.
• Raising Awareness: Many young people might be unaware of existing mobility opportunities and their benefits. Increasing awareness through targeted campaigns is crucial.
• Recognition of Learning Outcomes: Ensuring that learning experiences abroad are recognized and valued within different educational systems is essential to encourage participation (ec.europa.eu).

Collaboration is Key:

The EU recognizes the importance of collaboration between different programs and funding instruments:

• Erasmus+ and European Solidarity Corps: Synergizing these programs can maximize efficiency and reach.
• EU Cohesion Policy Funds: Financial support from these funds can create further opportunities for mobility initiatives (ec.europa.eu).

Investing in a More Connected Future:

These ambitious goals aim to equip future generations with valuable skills and a broader perspective. By fostering international learning experiences, the EU hopes to cultivate individuals who can thrive in an increasingly interconnected world and strengthen their understanding of the EU's common values.

Join the Conversation!

Do you think these ambitious goals are achievable? Have you participated in an international learning experience? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

#ErasmusPlus #EuropeOnTheMove #InternationalEducation #Mobility

Sources:

• European Council sets target for youth mobility: https://www.coe.int/en/web/youth/youth-mobility
• Erasmus+ statistics: https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/resources-and-tools/statistics-and-factsheets