Our key recommendations include:
1) Rethink the current mobility models
The Guild proposes to reevaluate the current mobility models, stressing harmonisation across different types of mobility. Recommendations include refining eligibility criteria for blended intensive programmes, making short-term PhD mobility more attractive, and introducing more flexibility for teaching and training activities.
2) Address green and inclusion priorities in a meaningful way
Beyond green travel, the programme has the potential to mainstream sustainable practices at institutional level. To enhance inclusion, The Guild recommends additional incentives and guidance, highlighting greater transparency in defining the criteria for students with fewer opportunities to ensure that we support those who otherwise would not be able to go abroad.
3) Develop a holistic approach to digitalisation
Digitalisation within Erasmus+ should be approached holistically, focusing on the university community's needs. It is also an opportunity to simplify the administrative management, especially of new formats such as short-term mobility. The Guild calls for increased functionalities of the Beneficiary Module and long-term investment in digitalisation efforts.
4) Enhance Cooperation Partnerships
Cooperation Partnerships should be made more attractive to academics of all study disciplines, especially those from social sciences, arts, and humanities. Although the introduction of the lump sum funding model has been welcomed, more clarity is needed around reporting, audit procedures, and quality assessment.
5) Reinforce the global dimension of Erasmus+
A significant boost to the global dimension of Erasmus+ is required to help realise the EU's geopolitical priorities. Recommendations include aligning the intra-European and international dimensions of the programme, providing greater flexibility in International Credit Mobility, and introducing dedicated schemes to support students and researchers at risk.
Ole Petter Ottersen, Acting Secretary-General of The Guild said: ''Strengthening the Erasmus+ programme is essential in this polarised world of ours. That is why the contribution of Erasmus+ to societal cohesion must be central in our discussions. Another important area where Erasmus+ can make a difference is in supporting sustainable ways of cooperation with our partners around the world. Erasmus+ should respond better to the global ambitions of universities.''
11 December 2023