The Erasmus+ Programme continues to foster transformative academic and social collaborations across the globe, and in Panama, this vision is being brought to life through the leadership and advocacy of Ms. Maria Giovanna Cordero, the Erasmus+ National Focal Point (ENFP). Her role in championing the program’s mission—particularly in advancing digital education and fostering inclusive international partnerships—places Panama firmly on the map of global academic cooperation.
Strengthening Ties Between Europe and Latin America
One of Ms. Cordero’s recent engagements was her active participation in the Kick-Off Meeting of the LAENOG Project—Latin American European Network in Social Support for Online Gaming—held by the University of Lisbon. Funded under the Erasmus+ Capacity Building in Higher Education (Strand 2) program, this project exemplifies how Erasmus+ is expanding its scope beyond traditional academic exchange, addressing real-world issues through cross-continental cooperation.
The LAENOG Project aims to study and reduce toxic behaviors in online gaming environments among young players aged 14–18. It promotes healthier, safer, and more inclusive digital spaces through research, tools, and educational campaigns. Two major Panamanian institutions—Universidad Tecnológica de Panamá and Universidad de Las Américas—are proudly part of this international consortium, highlighting Panama's growing role in global academic innovation.
Ms. Cordero’s participation at the launch emphasized the importance of:
- Enhancing collaboration between European and Latin American universities;
- Developing digital and educational tools to empower young people;
- And strengthening capacity-building through interdisciplinary research.
The Role of Panama’s Erasmus+ Focal Point
As the ENFP, Ms. Cordero plays a crucial role in disseminating Erasmus+ opportunities across Panama and ensuring stakeholders—from students and educators to institutions—can engage with its diverse offerings. Her work includes:
- Organizing outreach events and information sessions across universities;
- Facilitating institutional partnerships for joint projects under Erasmus+;
- Providing guidance on application processes for mobility, cooperation, and capacity-building actions;
- And connecting Panamanian entities with their European counterparts to pursue shared development goals.
By actively supporting Panama’s participation in innovative Erasmus+ projects like LAENOG, Ms. Cordero is not only promoting educational mobility but also helping to position Panama as a proactive player in international policy discussions around digital wellbeing and youth development.
A Vision Rooted in Innovation and Inclusion
Ms. Giovanna Cordero’s commitment to Erasmus+ is more than administrative—it is visionary. Her involvement with initiatives such as LAENOG represents a broader commitment to inclusive education, digital citizenship, and international cooperation. Through her work, the Erasmus+ Programme is being redefined in Panama as a bridge between continents, a platform for social innovation, and a catalyst for youth empowerment.
As the digital world evolves, so too must our educational systems. Leaders like Ms. Cordero are ensuring that Panama is not only adapting to this change but helping shape it—guided by the Erasmus+ spirit of collaboration, learning, and shared growth. Through her efforts, the program continues to inspire and open doors for new generations of Panamanians to thrive on the global stage.
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 Panama - Giovanna Cordero: gcordero@mire.gob.pa
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