THE Erasmus program has grown from a European unity effort into a global educational opportunity with significant personal and regional impact.
Launched in 1987 to promote peace and mutual understanding among European youth after centuries of conflict, it aimed to create a shared identity to prevent future wars by fostering friendships through education.
Expanded globally, now offering opportunities to students worldwide beyond Europe, Erasmus alums have developed lasting friendships and cultural understanding, enhancing individual and collective capacities.
The Chargé d’Affaires of the French Embassy in Fiji, Benjamin Delannoy, shared the personal impact of the Erasmus alum experience, emphasising learning new cultures and languages in Toulouse, France.
He emphasised the importance of cultural exchange in building skills and broadening perspectives.
“Alumni are encouraged to stay engaged with the EU delegation in Suva and inspire others in the Pacific.
“Alumni become key ambassadors promoting EU values and intercultural ties,” he said.
Quantitative reach and cultural outcomes of Erasmus have peaked. Over 15 million participants have joined Erasmus since the 1980s.
Delannoy said more than 1 million Erasmus babies have been born to couples who met during the program.
“This highlights the deep personal connections and cross-cultural bonds formed through Erasmus exchanges.
“These outcomes strengthen people-to-people ties between Europe and the Pacific region.”
The EU extends beyond education into research funding to support sustainable development in the Pacific.
Introduction of Horizon 2020 Funding for the Pacific, the EU’s largest research and innovation program, with 80 billion euros (about 200 billion Fijian dollars) available.
“This provides Pacific Island countries access to European funding and expertise, and this aims to address sustainable development and social challenges.
“Students and researchers are encouraged to explore these opportunities alongside Erasmus programs.
Horizon 2020 funding supports long-term growth and innovation in the region by connecting Pacific researchers with European networks, enhancing collaboration and knowledge sharing.
It reinforces the EU’s commitment to youth and regional development beyond educational exchanges, and it promotes sustainable solutions tailored to the Pacific islands’ needs.
Cultural Exchange and Long-Term Engagement
Building lasting cultural ties and encouraging alums to become local leaders is central to the EU’s vision for the Pacific.
The role of Alumni as Ambassadors and community leaders is positioned to inspire and reach communities unreachable by formal EU programs.
“Sharing personal experiences helps spread European values and cultural understanding.
“Alumni engagement strengthens diplomatic and educational ties between Europe and the Pacific, and it encourages ongoing involvement with EU programs and initiatives.
Delannoycalls for continued commitment and inspiration.
He emphasised dedication to academic excellence, cultural exchange, and personal growth.
“Encourage students to use education as a tool for personal and regional development.”
Strategic Vision for Education and Development
Education is framed as a vital engine for change and development in the Pacific, supported by EU programs.
The EU views education investment as critical for economic growth and social progress in the Pacific.
Programs like Erasmus and Horizon 2020 are strategic levers for long-term regional development, and Education is seen as a foundation for building resilient, skilled communities.
The EU’s approach integrates academic, cultural, and personal growth opportunities.
This fosters sustainable, people-centred development aligned with EU values.
The Pacific region is positioned as a key partner in these global education and research initiatives, and the strategy encourages cross-cultural understanding as a basis for peaceful and prosperous relations.