Costa Rica’s Erasmus+ Focal Point Strengthens Ties with the European Union

Daniel Uriel VENTURA CACERES
Daniel Uriel VENTURA CACERES • 22 March 2025

Mr. Jorge Umaña Vargas, Head of the Scholarship Office and Erasmus+ National Focal Point for Costa Rica, recently held a highly productive meeting with Ms. Galina Karamalakova, Deputy Ambassador of the European Union in the country. The meeting served as a platform to reinforce the commitment to strengthening academic cooperation between Costa Rica and the European Union through the Erasmus+ programme.

As the Erasmus+ National Focal Point, Mr. Umaña Vargas plays a crucial role in promoting international education opportunities, supporting Costa Rican students and institutions in accessing European funding programs, and fostering collaborations between universities. His work involves not only the dissemination of scholarship opportunities but also the development of strategic alliances that enhance mobility, research, and innovation within Costa Rica’s academic landscape.

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During the discussion, both parties explored new opportunities for expanding the reach of Erasmus+ scholarships, ensuring that a larger number of Costa Rican students, researchers, and academic staff can benefit from the program. Special emphasis was placed on strengthening partnerships between Costa Rican universities and European higher education institutions to facilitate joint research projects, student exchanges, and capacity-building initiatives.

Additionally, they discussed potential initiatives aimed at fostering academic growth in Costa Rica, including workshops, information sessions, and networking events designed to enhance awareness and participation in Erasmus+ opportunities. These efforts align with broader objectives to increase internationalization and improve the quality of higher education in the country.

The collaboration between the European Union and Costa Rica through Erasmus+ is an essential component of the broader strategic partnership between both regions. By enhancing mobility programs and academic cooperation, this initiative contributes to the professional development of Costa Rican students and faculty while strengthening the global positioning of the country’s universities.

The meeting between Mr. Umaña Vargas and Ms. Karamalakova marks a significant step toward deepening academic and scientific ties between Costa Rica and the European Union. As new initiatives take shape, the Erasmus+ programme will continue to serve as a key driver in fostering educational excellence, cross-cultural exchange, and long-term cooperation between both regions.
 

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 Costa Rica - Jorge Umaña Vargas  (Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores y Culto):  jumana@rree.go.cr

 

 

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