From Olukayide Idowu
The European Union (EU) has awarded scholarships to 134 young Nigerians for various master’s degree programmes in universities across Europe under its Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees Programme.
Erasmus often described as a prestigious international study programme is part of the EU’s flagship educational and training programme, Erasmus+, which supports education, training, youth, and sport in Europe.
The beneficiaries of the award this year as the highest in the annal of the scholarship award in a single year in Nigeria.
The first counsellor, deputy head of delegation, European Union Delegation to Nigeria and the Economic Community of West African States, Alexandre Borges Gomes, said for over 30 years, students and staff have moved between European universities in the Erasmus programme.
He disclosed that since 2016 Erasmus+ has allowed short-term mobility to Europe from ACP countries for students, researchers, and staff.
He noted that there is a distinct budget for different regions that are divided, however, $32.5 billion would be spent for the programme.
The envoy said with 134 students it is an achievement for Nigeria this year.
He said Nigeria is top from African and top six across the world for Erasmus students.
Gomes explained that the selection process is based on merit, adding that their applications were reviewed by panelists.
He noted that the programme allows students to study in foreign universities for 3-12 months and obtain credits which are then recognized at the sending institution as part of their degree.
Erasmus+ also supports innovation, cooperation and reform as well as the promotion of cooperation and mobility within the EU’s partner countries.