Erasmus+ Virtual Exchanges in Sub-Saharan Africa

The Erasmus+ Virtual Exchanges in Sub-Saharan Africa initiative aims to foster intercultural dialogue and soft skills development among young people through online, people-to-people activities. The program leverages digital platforms to provide high-quality international and cross-cultural educational experiences without requiring physical mobility, thus addressing global mobility constraints, such as those imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The action seeks to encourage tolerance, critical thinking, and media literacy, particularly in countering discrimination, indoctrination, polarization, and violent radicalization. It also aims to enhance digital and soft skills, promote citizenship and European values, and strengthen the youth dimension in EU relations with third countries. Thematic priorities include inclusion and diversity, digital transformation, environmental sustainability, and civic engagement, with flexibility for participating organizations to select specific topics within these areas.

Eligibility for the program extends to organizations and participants from both EU Member States and third countries associated with the Erasmus+ Programme, as well as third countries not associated with the Programme in eligible regions. Projects may involve participants from higher education or youth sectors, or both, and must be facilitated by trained moderators. Special attention is given to the inclusion of socially and economically vulnerable individuals and those unable to participate in physical mobility.

The impact of the Erasmus+ Virtual Exchanges is expected to be significant in broadening access to international education, fostering intercultural understanding, and equipping young people with essential skills for employability and active citizenship. By integrating virtual exchanges into existing educational and youth projects, the initiative aims to reach a diverse range of participants, promote European values, and lay the groundwork for future physical exchanges. The program also emphasizes gender sensitivity and the inclusion of marginalized groups, ensuring that the benefits of international engagement are accessible to all.