The collaboration between El Salvador and the European Union in the field of education continues to grow stronger, thanks in part to the active role of CONACYT, the country’s Erasmus+ National Focal Point (ENFP). Through strategic outreach and regional support, CONACYT is not only fostering opportunities for Salvadoran students and institutions but also extending a helping hand to neighboring countries in Central America.
Supporting Regional Cooperation
In early May, CONACYT responded to a request from the Central American Technological University (UNITEC) in Honduras—one of the countries in the region that currently lacks an Erasmus+ focal point. Recognizing the importance of regional collaboration and shared educational goals, CONACYT organized an online meeting with UNITEC’s Head of Internationalization in Education.
During the meeting, CONACYT presented an overview of the Erasmus+ Programme, with a special focus on the Joint Master Degrees, one of the EU’s flagship initiatives for international academic mobility and cooperation. The dialogue was not only informative but also forward-looking, as both institutions agreed to co-host a webinar in June or July targeting Honduran students interested in pursuing graduate studies in Europe. This initiative demonstrates how regional solidarity can expand access to life-changing international education opportunities.
Strengthening Capacity at Home
On May 7, CONACYT held another key meeting—this time with Dr. Daniel Ventura, Regional Project Manager for Latin America and the Caribbean for the Erasmus+ ENFP network. The session provided valuable insights into the broader Erasmus+ structure, tools, and strategy, helping CONACYT enhance its capacity to support El Salvador’s students, universities, and policymakers more effectively.
By deepening its understanding of the programme’s goals and internal mechanisms, CONACYT aims to improve the quality of its outreach, guidance, and institutional support—crucial elements in ensuring that more Salvadorans can take advantage of Erasmus+ opportunities.
Why This Matters: EU–El Salvador Educational Cooperation
The efforts of CONACYT are part of a larger, strategic partnership between the European Union and El Salvador aimed at promoting education, inclusion, and innovation. Through Erasmus+, the EU offers a pathway for academic and professional growth, while encouraging intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding.
Participation in the Erasmus+ Programme not only benefits individual students and researchers but also strengthens El Salvador’s higher education institutions by promoting international collaboration, curriculum development, and capacity building. The cooperation aligns with national priorities for improving education quality and expanding global engagement.
As CONACYT continues to champion Erasmus+ in El Salvador and the region, its work stands as a clear example of how local commitment and international cooperation can work hand in hand to create new opportunities and build a brighter future for Central America.
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 El Salvador, Ana Vargas (conacyt): ana.vargas@conacyt.gob.sv
Auxiliar ENFP of El Salvador, Rhina Lopez (conacyt): rlopez@conacyt.gob.sv
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