How does Erasmus+ support FullCircle?

GENERAL OBJECTIVE

The general objective of the Programme is to support, through lifelong learning, the educational, professional and personal development of people in education, training, youth and sport in Europe and beyond, thereby contributing to sustainable growth, quality jobs and social cohesion, to driving innovation and to strengthening European identity and active citizenship.

As such, the Programme shall be a key instrument for building the European Education Area, supporting the implementation of the European strategic cooperation in the field of education and training with its underlying sectoral agendas. In addition, it is key in advancing youth policy cooperation under the European Union Youth Strategy 2019-2027 and developing the European dimension in sport.

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES

The Programme has the following specific objectives:

• to promote learning mobility of individuals and groups, as well as cooperation, quality, inclusion and equity, excellence, creativity and innovation at the level of organisations and policies in the field of education and training;

• to promote non-formal and informal learning mobility and active participation among young people, as well as cooperation, quality, inclusion, creativity and innovation at the level of organisations and policies in the field of youth;

• to promote learning mobility of sport staff, as well as cooperation, quality, inclusion, creativity and innovation at the level of sport organisations and sport policies.

© European Commission

INCLUSION AND DIVERSITY

The Programme seeks to promote equal opportunities and access, inclusion, diversity and fairness across all its actions. Organisations and participants with fewer opportunities themselves are at the heart of these objectives. With this in mind, the programme puts mechanisms and resources at their disposal. When designing their projects and activities, organisations should have an inclusive approach, making them accessible to a diverse range of participants.

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

To support the successful digital transformation and address societal challenges such as AI or disinformation more effectively Europe needs education, training and youth systems that are fit for the digital age. In line with the strategic priorities of the Digital Education Action Plan (2021-2027) and the two Council Recommendations adopted in November 2023 on a) the key enabling factors for successful digital education and training, and b) improving the provision of digital skills in education and training, the Erasmus+ programme plays a key role in supporting citizens of all ages in acquiring the digital skills and competences they need to live, learn, work, exercise their rights, be informed, access online services, communicate, critically consume, create and disseminate digital education content.

ENVIRONMENT AND FIGHT AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE

Environment and climate action are key priorities for the EU now and in the future. The European Green Deal Communication is the European new growth strategy recognising the key role of schools, training institutions and universities in engaging with pupils, parents, and the wider community on the changes needed for a successful transition to climate neutrality by 2050.

In addition, the Council Recommendation on learning for the green transition emphasizes the need to provide learners of all ages with opportunities to find out about the climate crisis and sustainability through both formal and non-formal education, and to make learning for the green transition a priority in education and training policies and programmes.

Sustainability should become a part of the entire spectrum of education and training, including curricula and professional development for educators, as well as buildings, infrastructure and operations.

PARTICIPATION IN DEMOCRATIC LIFE, COMMON VALUES AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

The Erasmus+ Programme addresses the citizens’ limited participation in democratic processes and their lack of knowledge about the European Union and tries to help them overcome the difficulties in actively engaging and participating in their communities and in the Union’s political and social life. Strengthening citizens’ understanding of the European Union from an early age is crucial for the Union’s future. In addition to formal education, non-formal learning can enhance the citizens’ understanding of the European Union and foster a sense of belonging.

The Programme supports active citizenship and ethics in lifelong learning, it fosters the development of social and intercultural competences, critical thinking and media literacy.

© European Commission