Panama has been making significant strides in promoting the Erasmus+ programme, thanks to the efforts of Giovanna Cordero, the Erasmus+ National Focal Point (ENFP) in the country. One of the most remarkable initiatives she has supported is the launch of the FUESE project (Fortalecimiento de la Extensión en el Ecosistema de las Universidades en Centroamérica), a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing the role of higher education institutions in their socioeconomic environment. This event marks her first major initiative of 2025, setting the stage for many more impactful activities throughout the year.
FUESE: A Step Towards Regional Higher Education Strengthening
FUESE is a collaborative project that brings together 12 Central American and two European institutions, showcasing the power of international cooperation in the field of education. Led by the Universidad de Las Américas (UDELAS) in Panama, this initiative aims to strengthen the impact of universities on their surrounding communities by assessing and improving institutional policies and practices.
The project, which runs from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2026, was selected under the Erasmus-EDU-2023 call for Capacity Building in the Field of Higher Education. Its primary objective is to install new capabilities in higher education institutions across Central America, enhancing their ability to contribute to socioeconomic development.
Giovanna Cordero’s Role in Promoting Erasmus+ in Panama
As the ENFP for Panama, Giovanna Cordero has played an important role in fostering awareness and participation in Erasmus+ opportunities. Her work has included:
- Promoting Erasmus+ Programmes: She has actively engaged with higher education institutions, students, and academic staff to raise awareness of the Erasmus+ programme, ensuring that Panamanian institutions take full advantage of these opportunities.
- Facilitating Capacity Building: Through initiatives like FUESE, she has helped institutions strengthen their international collaboration, improve research and innovation capabilities, and develop sustainable academic partnerships.
- Strengthening Institutional Ties: By supporting projects like FUESE, she has contributed to deepening ties between Panamanian universities and their counterparts in Central America and Europe, fostering knowledge exchange and best practices.
Impact of FUESE on Panama’s Higher Education System
The FUESE project represents a significant milestone in Panama’s higher education landscape. It not only enhances institutional capacities but also contributes to broader regional development by integrating universities more effectively into their socioeconomic ecosystems. The project is expected to:
- Improve policies and practices within higher education institutions.
- Enhance leadership and governance structures in universities.
- Strengthen collaboration between academia and society to address pressing social and economic challenges.
Looking Ahead
With projects like FUESE, Panama is positioning itself as a key player in international higher education collaboration. This launch is just the beginning of Giovanna Cordero’s many planned initiatives in 2025. Thanks to her dedicated efforts, more institutions and individuals in Panama are becoming aware of and benefiting from Erasmus+ opportunities. As the project progresses, its impact will be a testament to the power of international cooperation in fostering sustainable educational and social development.
Stay tuned for more updates on Erasmus+ initiatives in Panama and the Latin American and Caribbean region!
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: Maria Giovanna Cordero: gcordero@mire.gob.pa
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