In Paraguay, the advancement of international education is being led by persons who understand the power of global collaboration. At the forefront of this movement is Daniel Alfredo Pérez Gonzales, Erasmus+ National Focal Point (ENFP) and Director General of Universities, Higher Institutes, and Technical Institutes at the Viceministerio de Educación Superior y Ciencias, part of the Ministry of Education and Sciences of Paraguay. His leadership is playing a critical role in bringing Erasmus+ opportunities to the forefront of Paraguayan academic and scientific development.
A Legacy of European-Paraguayan Cooperation
The European Union and Paraguay have a long-standing relationship built on mutual cooperation in areas such as education, research, and innovation. Over the decades, this collaboration has supported Paraguay’s efforts to modernize its higher education system, foster knowledge exchange, and strengthen institutional capacities. The Erasmus+ Programme, as one of the EU’s flagship initiatives, is a natural extension of this enduring partnership—connecting Paraguayan students, educators, and researchers with European institutions and ideas.
Promoting Erasmus+ at the National Level
As the Erasmus+ National Focal Point, Daniel Alfredo Pérez Gonzales is deeply committed to making Erasmus+ a visible and accessible opportunity for all Paraguayans. His work includes:
- Raising awareness about Erasmus+ programs among universities and technical institutes across the country.
- Organizing engagement activities in collaboration with the EU Delegation to Paraguay to broaden institutional participation.
- Advising and guiding applicants, helping them navigate the application processes and understand program structures such as mobility, capacity building, and cooperation partnerships.
- Fostering dialogue between Paraguayan and European stakeholders to create meaningful, long-term partnerships.
Toward Horizon Europe and New Frontiers
On April 22, in the framework of a structural project currently underway in Paraguay, Mr. Pérez Gonzales held a key meeting with Kirsty Ala-Mutka, a representative of the European Union Delegation in Paraguay. The discussion reflected a shared interest in exploring deeper levels of cooperation, particularly through Horizon Europe, the EU’s largest research and innovation framework program.
A notable outcome of this dialogue was the proposal to organize hands-on workshops on Horizon Europe, aimed at equipping Paraguayan institutions and researchers with the skills and knowledge to access funding and participate in transnational research projects. Though the dates are still being finalized, this initiative signifies an important next step in broadening Paraguay’s participation in European educational and research frameworks.
A Vision for Inclusive, Global Education
Under the stewardship of Daniel Alfredo Pérez Gonzales, Paraguay is embracing a new era of globalized higher education, rooted in excellence, equity, and cooperation. His work exemplifies the role of national leadership in bridging local needs with international resources, and in empowering students and institutions to dream beyond borders.
As Paraguay deepens its cooperation with the European Union through Erasmus+ and beyond, it moves closer to a future where academic mobility, cross-cultural collaboration, and research-driven development become standard tools of national progress. Thanks to leaders like Mr. Pérez Gonzales, Erasmus+ in Paraguay is not just a program—it’s a transformative opportunity for generations to come.
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 Paraguay - Daniel Perez: daniel.perez@mec.gov.py
ENFP local Support - Guadalupe Jara: guadalupe.jara@mec.gov.py
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