EMA at the garagErasmus Annual Meeting 2025: Shaping the Future of International Mobility

The Erasmus Mundus Association (EMA) proudly took part in the garagErasmus Annual Meeting 2025, held on 14–15 April in Milan, Italy. Represented by Mr Rajon Bhuiyan, Director of EMA’s Outreach and Capacity Building (OCB) Unit, the event focused on shaping the future of international mobility, skills development, and policy advocacy. Supported by the Erasmus+ Student and Alumni Alliance (ESAA), the gathering brought together key stakeholders from across Europe. Highlights included collaborative working groups, strategic planning, and a high-level panel on the Erasmus+ programme’s future, where EMA's voice was central in championing inclusive, globally connected mobility initiatives.

On 14–15 April 2025, the garagErasmus Foundation welcomed stakeholders from across Europe to Milan for its highly anticipated Annual Meeting, themed “5 Years Ahead.” Representing the Erasmus Mundus Association (EMA) at this pivotal event was Mr Rajon Bhuiyan, Director of the Outreach and Capacity Building (OCB) Unit, who brought EMA’s unique perspective to the forefront of strategic discussions.

The two-day event provided a vital platform for collaborative planning, reflection, and innovation aimed at strengthening the role of the garagErasmus network in promoting international mobility, skills development, and policy engagement. This year’s meeting received proud support from the Erasmus+ Student and Alumni Alliance (ESAA), an umbrella network of which EMA is a founding member.

A cornerstone of the gathering was the working group sessions, where participants split into six thematic groups: mobility, policy advocacy, skills recognition, professional development, European citizenship, and strategic initiatives. Each group explored actionable ideas and policy recommendations designed to shape the next phase of international collaboration. These proposals were later refined and presented in a plenary session on the second day, setting the direction for garagErasmus’ strategic roadmap.

Adding to the momentum was a high-level panel discussion titled “Erasmus at a Crossroads: Towards and Beyond 2027.” This brought together thought leaders and representatives from EMA, OCEANS Network, African Students and Alumni Forum (ASAF), Western Balkans Alumni Association (WBAA), and garagErasmus. The panel addressed pressing questions around the future of the Erasmus+ programme, particularly in light of the 2027 transition.

Key discussion points included expanding access for underrepresented regions, reinforcing intercontinental alumni cooperation, and recognising mobility as a driver for intercultural dialogue and socio-economic development. On behalf of EMA, Mr Bhuiyan contributed reflections on the Erasmus Mundus experience, highlighting the transformative power of academic mobility in empowering individuals, fostering global partnerships, and reinforcing Europe’s role in international education.

The Annual Meeting served not only as a planning forum but as a renewed commitment to the shared mission of promoting inclusive, high-impact mobility opportunities. EMA's involvement reaffirmed its dedication to building bridges between continents, disciplines, and communities—laying the groundwork for a more connected and collaborative future.