They're back! (Swiss and UK re-entry to Erasmus+)
As many of us are still processing the numerous conversations, meetings, ideas and inspiration gathered at this year’s EAIE conference and exhibition in Glasgow, the next important development within the IHE field is already upon us.
The European higher education community has long benefited from Erasmus+, a programme that has connected students, staff and institutions across borders for nearly four decades. Yet in recent years, two important members of that community, the United Kingdom and Switzerland, have operated outside the programme, developing alternative approaches to international mobility and cooperation while maintaining strong ties with partners across Europe. Now, with both countries set to rejoin Erasmus+ in 2027, a new chapter is beginning. What does this return mean? What lessons have been learned during the years outside the programme? And how can institutions make the most of the opportunities that lie ahead while managing expectations around this significant transition?
In this EAIE podcast episode, host Laura Rumbley speaks with Erika Boak, Erasmus+ Higher Education Sector Lead for the British Council, and Amanda Crameri, Head of Higher Education at Movetia, Switzerland. Together, they reflect on what the return to Erasmus+ means, explore insights gained from operating beyond the programme framework, and discuss how international offices can prepare for this next phase of engagement.
About Amanda Crameri
Amanda Crameri is Head of the Higher Education Unit at Movetia, the Swiss National Agency for the promotion of international cooperation and mobility, and designated Director of the future Swiss National Agency for Erasmus+. She has worked in international higher education since 2011, with a particular focus on international student mobility and cooperation. AC holds an MSc in General History and Italian Literature and Linguistics from the University of Zurich. She is passionate about international cooperation in higher education and about creating opportunities for students and institutions to connect, learn and grow across borders.
About Erika Boak
Erika Boak is the Erasmus+ Higher Education Sector Lead for the British Council and leads efforts to mobilise the UK Higher Education sector. Previously, she was the EU Education Director, where she provided strategic leadership of the British Council’s work in EU mobility, research and transnational education, strengthening focus and impact. Before joining the British Council, Erika was Head of International Strategy and Partnerships at the Department for Education (DfE). Before DfE, Erika worked internationally, including for UNESCO and UNICEF.
Additional resources
For further insights into the topics touched on in this episode, the following resources may be of interest:
→ Eyes on Erasmus+
→ EU’s Multiannual Financial Framework 2028-2034: What’s in it for Europe’s higher education institutions?
