Ecuador Advances the Internationalization of Higher Education with Support from Erasmus+

In a determined effort to foster the internationalization and strengthening of its higher education institutions, the Secretariat of Higher Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation (Senescyt) and the Ecuadorian Corporation for the Development of Research and Academia (CEDIA) — Ecuador's National Focal Points (ENFPs) — have played a crucial role in promoting and supporting opportunities through the Erasmus+ programme.

Thanks to ongoing training initiatives and outreach efforts regarding Erasmus+, a total of 42 inquiries have been received from 14 Ecuadorian universities and from members of the general public. These inquiries have sought assistance related to the open calls for Capacity Building in Higher Education 2025 and the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees. The requests span key activities such as:

• Searching for and establishing strategic partnerships.
• Identifying calls aligned with institutional priorities and interests.
• Clarifying the use and navigation of the official Erasmus+ platform.
• Providing guidance on specific aspects of application forms.
• Detailing requirements for available scholarship programs.

The collaborative work between Senescyt and CEDIA has been instrumental in addressing these needs, demonstrating their strong commitment to Ecuador’s academic development and international engagement. Their support is enabling Ecuadorian universities and citizens to broaden their cooperation horizons and access European resources that promote innovation, cultural exchange, continuous improvement in higher education, and scholarship opportunities.

The Capacity Building in Higher Education 2025 call represents an invaluable opportunity to strengthen institutional capacities and foster joint projects that have a meaningful impact on Ecuador’s academic communities. Similarly, through the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees, Ecuadorian citizens are being offered life-changing opportunities to broaden their academic and professional horizons by pursuing graduate studies in Europe with full scholarships.

The support provided by Ecuador's National Focal Points (ENFPs) is a vital part of strengthening and empowering Ecuadorian universities and their communities. It ensures they are better prepared to face global challenges and seize the opportunities offered by the Erasmus+ programme, ultimately contributing to the country's sustainable academic growth and international integration.

Did you find this article interesting? Would you like to learn more about Erasmus+ programs and scholarships for you and your institution in your country? Feel free to contact your Erasmus+ National Focal Point (ENFP)! 

ENFP of Ecuador- Joselyn Goyes  (SENESCYT):  jgoyes@senescyt.gob.ec

Auxiliar ENFP of Ecuador: Gabriela Cáceres (CEDIA):  gabriela.caceres@cedia.org.ec