The new Erasmus+ Program, running from 2021-27, will be more digital, inclusive and innovative, as well as greener, the European Commission has said following a provisional agreement with the European Parliament and EU Member States.
The Erasmus+ program will aim to reach 10 million people over the next seven years, while the program’s budget for the period will exceed €26 billion.
The Eramus+ program will also be key to achieving the European Education Area by 2025, according to the EC.
“Erasmus+ is one of our flagship programs,” said Mariya Gabriel, commissioner for innovation, research, culture, education and youth.
By increasing the numbers of participants, the EC hopes to provide opportunities to a “more diverse” group of learners, including those with fewer opportunities – such people with disabilities, migrants and EU citizens living in remote areas.
Virtual learning and measures such as language support, preparatory visits, training and virtual cooperation will strength participation for those people unable to take part in in-person mobility programs.
Erasmus+ will also support flagship EC initiatives, such as European Universities, Erasmus Teacher Academies, Centres of Vocational Excellence and DiscoverEU.
With the announcement, Europe is “ready for the next and bigger Erasmus generations”, said EC vice-president Margaritis Schinas.
“Erasmus is Europe’s most emblematic program, the jewel in our crown. The Erasmus generations represent the essence of our European way of life. Unity in diversity, solidarity, mobility, support for Europe as an area of peace, freedom and opportunities.”