Universities urge negotiators to swiftly agree to UK Erasmus+ association

As such, the European University Association and Universities UK have published a joint statement affirming their strong support for the UK’s return to the programme, subject to mutually agreed financial terms.

However, time is of the essence. EUA and UUK’s statement urges negotiators to be ambitious in agreeing to long-term association and to do so swiftly, while calling for clarity and timely communication so that all stakeholders can successfully plan and deliver Erasmus+ partnerships and programmes at the earliest opportunity.

Welcoming the joint statement, Jamie Arrowsmith, Director of Universities UK International, noted that:

"The Erasmus+ programme supports mobility and exchange that enrich the lives of students and strengthens ties between universities across Europe and beyond. We urge all parties to move swiftly to reach a mutually agreeable deal on the cost of association so that universities, students and staff can plan with confidence and realise these benefits in future. This would be in the best interests of the UK and our partners across Europe."

Thomas Jørgensen, Director of Policy Coordination and Foresight at EUA, added that:

“Erasmus+ is unique in its ability to connect people and institutions across borders. Full association of the UK will give universities across the continent greater scope to grow together, and it will open new opportunities for learners to broaden their skills, as well as their cultural and intellectual horizons.”

Read the joint statement