EMA members Naimul Islam and Paul Olatunji attended the 75th NAFSA Annual Conference and Expo in Washington DC, from 30 May to 2 June 2023. The event, organized by the National Association of Foreign Student Advisers (NAFSA), the world’s largest international education and exchange association, drew thousands of professionals from over 100 countries. Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Nadia Murad and writer, activist, and comedian Baratunde Thurston were also invited to the event.
Delegates from the European Commission, EURAXESS, EU Delegations, Erasmus Mundus Alumni, and MSCA Alumni and facilitators represented the Commission's 'Study and Research in Europe' pavilion. Naimul Islam stated, “As an Alum of the prestigious Erasmus Mundus scholarship I had the privilege to work with the European Commission on this event. It was a great opportunity to meet and greet Ambassadors, Delegations, and Ministers from different countries. We promoted the study and research opportunities with scholarships, especially with Erasmus+, Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions and Fulbright Schuman. The Alumni presented different aspects of the scholarship opportunity from their experience. Also participated in panel discussions and poster presentations. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Erasmus Mundus Students and Alumni Association (EMA) for giving me the opportunity to join this event."
According to Paul Olatunji, “The conference served as a valuable platform for me to present and engage in discussions about my Erasmus Mundus programme, Erasmus+, and various other initiatives supported by the European Union. It provided significant networking opportunities, allowing me to connect with individuals from diverse institutions and countries. Additionally, I had the privilege of extending invitations to these individuals to participate in the wide range of initiatives available under the EU. Thanks to EMA for the privilege to participate in this event.”