On June 18th, 2025, a milestone for Bolivian-European educational cooperation was marked in the heart of La Paz. At the national offices of the European Union, key figures from the EU Delegation and the Ministry of Education of Bolivia came together for a strategic coordination meeting that set the foundation for a stronger, more inclusive Erasmus+ presence in the country. Among them stood Juan de Dios Fernández Campos, the Erasmus+ National Focal Point of Bolivia, a figure playing a pivotal role in bridging Bolivian higher education with opportunities in Europe.
A Shared Commitment to Educational Mobility and Inclusion
The meeting was convened by Andreas Pérez, Head of the Political Section of the EU Delegation in Bolivia, and Mónica Rodríguez, Program Officer for Civil Society and Erasmus+. Representing the Bolivian Ministry of Education was José Antonio Apala, Vice Minister of Higher Education, accompanied by Fernández Campos and other senior officials.
What emerged was more than a coordination session; it was a powerful reaffirmation of mutual commitment to educational advancement. The EU’s holistic approach to sectoral cooperation was presented, and Vice Minister Apala did not hesitate to express Bolivia’s readiness to deepen its ties—especially by engaging its Technical and Technological Education sector through Capacity Building in the Field of Vocational Education and Training (VET).
The conversation also turned toward increasing Bolivian participation in Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters and International Credit Mobility, with a shared ambition to extend these opportunities across all regions and social groups in the country.
The Role of the National Focal Point: Beyond Coordination
As the Erasmus+ National Focal Point, Juan de Dios Fernández Campos is not only a representative of the Ministry of Education—he is a dedicated promoter and facilitator of international education. His role goes beyond administration: it involves raising awareness, creating opportunities, and building trust between Bolivian institutions and the European Union’s flagship education programme.
At the meeting, Fernández Campos was instrumental in articulating how Erasmus+ can be leveraged to support national priorities, such as the inclusion of indigenous universities—a sector that has long remained underrepresented in international mobility schemes. His advocacy for targeted support and tailored engagement for these institutions helped crystallize a key mid-term goal: a nationwide outreach strategy that ensures equitable access for all segments of the higher education sector.
Looking Ahead: Fairs, Outreach, and Equity
One of the most exciting outcomes of the meeting was the agreement to launch a series of Higher Education Fairs across Bolivia in August 2025. These events, which will take place in various departments of the country, will bring together embassies from EU Member States including Germany, France, and Spain, in coordination with the Ministry of Education. The goal? To showcase Erasmus+ opportunities, foster institutional collaboration, and make EU study programs visible and accessible to Bolivian youth, no matter their location or background.
In parallel, a mid-term strategy will be developed for in-person outreach activities specifically designed for indigenous higher education institutions. This includes tailored presentations, institutional visits, and workshops that reflect the unique contexts and needs of these communities—ensuring that no student is left behind in Bolivia’s journey toward international academic integration.
A Catalyst for Change
Juan de Dios Fernández Campos stands as a catalyst for change in Bolivia’s higher education landscape. Through his leadership and collaboration with both national authorities and EU partners, the Erasmus+ programme is being strategically positioned to respond to local needs while opening doors to global opportunities.
As Bolivia takes decisive steps toward building a more inclusive and internationally connected higher education system, the work of the National Erasmus+ Focal Point—anchored in shared values of equity, excellence, and collaboration—will remain essential. With eyes set on August's Higher Education Fairs and long-term support for underserved institutions, Bolivia is entering a new chapter in its educational journey, hand in hand with the European Union.
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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)!
Auxiliar ENFP of Bolivia: Juan de Dios Fernandez Campos: fcjuande@gmail.com
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