Training with “comware” provider on citizen communication strategy on ERASMUS+

Sebastián Fajardo, the current Erasmus+ National Focal Point (ENFP) for Colombia, is a dynamic advocate for international academic cooperation. Based at ICETEX, the Colombian governmental agency that promotes access to international education opportunities, Sebastián plays a key role in bridging Europe and Colombia through the Erasmus+ programme.

With a solid background in international relations and public policy, Sebastián has been instrumental in boosting visibility, participation, and understanding of Erasmus+ among Colombian students, researchers, and institutions. His work focuses not only on providing accurate and timely information about the programme but also on crafting strategic partnerships and fostering deeper institutional cooperation between Colombia and Europe.

Building Strategic Communication Channels

One of Sebastián’s most recent contributions was his lead role in a training session on August 9, 2024, organized in collaboration with the communication provider Comware. The training focused on designing a citizen communication strategy for Erasmus+, aiming to make the programme more accessible and relatable to wider Colombian audiences.

The session brought together over 70 participants, including communications experts, institutional stakeholders, and educational leaders. Discussions centered on best practices for conveying the values, benefits, and opportunities of Erasmus+ in Colombia, especially in underserved regions. Thanks to Sebastián’s coordination, the training laid the groundwork for a more coherent and impactful national outreach plan that aligns with the Erasmus+ goals of inclusivity and excellence.

Promoting Erasmus+ Across Colombia

Beyond communications, Sebastián actively engages in events, workshops, and info sessions with higher education institutions, civil society, and government actors to expand Colombia's involvement in Erasmus+. His activities include:

• Advising universities and technical institutions on how to participate in Erasmus+ mobility and cooperation projects.
• Supporting the dissemination of calls for proposals, scholarship opportunities, and project success stories.
• Facilitating dialogues between Colombian and European partners to stimulate new Erasmus+ collaborations.

Thanks to his leadership, Colombia continues to be a rising player in the Erasmus+ ecosystem in Latin America.

Why EU-Colombia Cooperation Matters

The collaboration between the European Union and Colombia in education, science, and technology represents a strategic alliance with mutual benefits. Through Erasmus+, Colombia gains access to cutting-edge academic networks, research infrastructure, and inclusive mobility schemes. Meanwhile, European institutions benefit from Colombia’s academic talent, cultural diversity, and emerging research potential.

Initiatives like Sebastián's communication training are essential to democratizing access to these opportunities, ensuring that students and institutions from all backgrounds can participate. This people-to-people exchange strengthens not only academic standards but also diplomatic ties and innovation systems on both sides of the Atlantic.

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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 Colombia - Sebastian Fajardo  (Colombian Institute of Educational Credit and Technical Studies Abroad):  sfajardo@icetex.gov.co