Erasmus, the European student exchange program, was a hot topic in Palazzo Vecchio’s Salone dei Duecento yesterday. Florence’s status as a study-abroad mecca made it an apt location for the official presentation of the new program Erasmus+. Minister for Education Stefania Giannini and Commissioner for Education Androulla Vassiliou were present to explain the program’s objectives and to garner support.
Erasmus+ will provide opportunities for over 4 million young Europeans to study, gain work experience and volunteer abroad. ‘We’re calling it Erasmus Plus because it signifies our determination to remain committed to this important program, even in this time of economic crisis,’ Giannini explained. She continued, ‘We want this great opportunity for cultural exchange to become not just a choice for students, but a duty.’
Many local high schoolers and potential future participants were present in the Sala dei Duecento. ‘[Erasmus+ sounds like] a great experience, offering a chance for young people to meet new people and learn a new language,’ one student, Eleanora, commented.
Regarding the European parliament elections on May 25, Giannini said, ‘We’re called not only to cast a vote for a party, but to say yes or no to Europe,’ emphasizing the importance of supporting cross-cultural opportunities for young people.
