Student exchange powers lifelong learning in Europe

Erasmus, one of the most successful EU programmes ever, has been celebrating its 20^th anniversary this year. The closing conference of the year-long celebrations, held in Lisbon on 4-5 October, drew student organisations such as the European students’ union and the Erasmus student network as well as policy-makers from all over the EU.

Set up in 1987, the Erasmus programme has enabled almost 1.5m students to spend up to a full academic year abroad, in collaboration with 2 200 higher education institutions in 31 countries. Recent statistics show that student mobility stimulates young people’s interest in advanced studies and helps them get jobs - employers regard Erasmus experience as an asset! The programme now aims to involve even more young people, by tackling the inequality that could prevent the poorest students from taking part. New targets aim to bring the grand total of participants since the start of the programme to three million by 2012.

Providing people of all ages with equal and open access to high-quality lifelong learning is one of the EU’s top priorities. A wide range of educational programmes caters for all EU citizens, including children, teachers, adults and people in work. Nearly €7bn has been allocated for 2007-13 to promote education for the people of Europe and help them make the most of their abilities.

   Lifelong learning - EU programmes