Erasmus+ for a prosperous, resilient and skilled Europe through science and technology

The leading universities of science and technology united within CESAER published today a position on ‘Erasmus+ for a prosperous, resilient and skilled Europe through science and technology’.

• The position is available here for download and dissemination (PDF).

Amid ongoing discussions on the EU’s next long-term budget (MFF) and the future of Erasmus+, the paper offers guidance to ensure the programme 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:

1. a bold budget increase;
2. unlocking the full potential of joint programmes and alliances;
3. connecting the knowledge triangle;
4. call for simplification;
5. strengthen international cooperation.

“As universities of science and technology, we are shaping the skills, knowledge and talent that Europe’s societies and industries need. Erasmus+ is more than a funding programme — it stands as one of the EU’s greatest achievements, offering unmatched opportunities for learners and staff across the continent. In order to truly commit to building a prosperous Europe, Erasmus+ must be powered by bold ambition and budget. It is time to break down the barriers between education, research and innovation, accelerate the fifth freedom, and boost support of seamless pathways for students and staff to shape Europe’s future.”

— Justyna Szostak, Co-Chair of CESAER Task Force Learning & Teaching, Chair of Internationalisation Committee, Rector’s Representative for International Educational Programs at Gdańsk University of Technology

“Erasmus+ is far more than a mobility programme: it is a key driver of European cooperation, skills development, and innovation in education and training. This position highlights areas for improvement in the field of higher education to sustain and expand its impact: a stronger, more ambitious budget, enhanced support for alliances and joint programmes, and a braver approach towards synergies within the knowledge triangle. Our recommendations draw directly from the practical experience of CESAER Members and are designed to future-proof this vital European programme.”

—Christian Gerhardts, Co-Chair of the Task Force Sustainable Funding and Head of the European Project Center at Technische Universität Dresden.

For more information, please contact our Information & Communication Officer Justine Moynat.