Erasmus+ Week 2024: Fostering Regional Cooperation and Advancing Digital Education in Latin America and the Caribbean
On October 1-2, 2024, the Erasmus+ Week for Latin America and the Caribbean unfolded in Montevideo, Uruguay, with participants also joining virtually. Organized by the Directorate-General for Education, Youth, Sport and Culture (DG EAC) of the European Commission and the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA), this event brought together education stakeholders from Latin America, the Caribbean, and Europe to strengthen ties and explore new opportunities under the Erasmus+ programme.
Key Figures in Uruguay
The event was held with the support of the Uruguayan Agency for International Cooperation and the Delegation of the European Union in Uruguay. Moreover,
as a participant of the host country, the exceptional contribution of Alejandro Quinteros, representing the Agencia Uruguaya de Cooperación Internacional (AUCI) and serving as Uruguay’s Erasmus+ National Focal Point (ENFP). Alejandro played a pivotal role in coordinating local efforts and ensuring the smooth integration of the country’s institutions into the broader Erasmus+ network. His leadership underlined the commitment of Uruguay and the Agency to the Erasmus+ framework programme, to international collaboration in education and to the goal that more public and private higher education institutions, vocational training institutions, NGOs, students and teachers learn about and participate in the programme.
Event Highlights
Cluster Meeting
On October 1 and the morning of October 2, the Cluster Meeting focused on fostering cooperation between education actors from the regions. Discussions revolved around the experiences of Erasmus+ beneficiaries and explored the year’s central theme: Digital in Education. This platform inspired newcomers while spotlighting successful projects and partnerships.
Contact-Making Session
The afternoon of October 2 featured a dynamic contact-making session. This session encouraged participants to establish connections and explore collaborative opportunities. Through engaging exercises, attendees—both in person and online—initiated dialogues aimed at forming meaningful partnerships.
Thematic Focus: Digital in Education
This year’s theme, Digital in Education, addressed the rapid technological transformation affecting education systems globally. Topics included digital equity, the impact of AI, and preparing institutions for a future shaped by advanced connectivity and digital tools.
The discussions were aligned with the European Digital Education Action Plan (2021-2027), emphasizing Erasmus+ as a vital instrument for equipping individuals with essential digital skills and bridging the digital divide.
Contributing to the Global Gateway
The Erasmus+ programme also showcased its alignment with the Global Gateway initiative, focusing on accelerating the digital transition and enhancing education and training. This strategic integration reinforces the programme’s role in shaping a digitally inclusive future.Resources and Opportunities
Participants were encouraged to explore Erasmus+ projects related to Digital in Education through an online repository, while the agenda and presentations from the event remain accessible for reference.
The Erasmus+ Week 2024 was a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in education. Uruguay, through the efforts of individuals like Alejandro Quinteros, exemplified the potential of regional leadership in fostering global partnerships for transformative educational outcomes.
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