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

CESAER regards Erasmus+ as one of the most valuable EU funding programmes and strongly supports efforts to develop an ambitious Erasmus+ for 2028–2034. The political guidelines of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the Commission’s strategic initiatives including the Competitiveness Compass and Union of Skills, and the recent high-level reports by Draghi, Heitor and Letta all emphasise the role of education, skills, and training in securing Europe’s prosperity and competitiveness through scientific and technological leadership across the full knowledge triangle. Erasmus+ is vital to these ambitions, reinforcing the education pillar and strengthening synergies with research and innovation through mobility and training. Universities of science and technology play a key role in equipping Europe with the talent, knowledge, and skills needed to address societal priorities and global challenges through advanced science and technology. Through the integration of education, research, and innovation, and through close collaboration with industry and society, they contribute to educating the next generation and supporting efforts to generate societal and economic impact across Europe and beyond. Europe’s future prosperity depends on a strong, collaborative education system underpinned by excellence in science and technology, with Erasmus+ as the most effective instrument at EU level for fostering long-term, cross-border cooperation and innovation in education and training. It enhances Europe’s global standing in higher education, facilitates the free circulation of scientific knowledge and talent, and makes our societies more resilient. To fully deliver on our shared objectives, Erasmus+ requires decisive and ambitious investment. To support this vision for Erasmus+ 2028–2034, we offer five key recommendations: a bold budget increase, unlocking joint programmes and alliances, connecting the knowledge triangle, simplification, and strengthening international cooperation. In doing so, we reaffirm our strong commitment to working alongside EU institutions, member states, and partners to ensure Erasmus+ remains a world-leading programme for education, training, mobility, and cooperation—notably in the advanced science and technologies that are increasingly shaping our world.