The Erasmus Mundus Association (EMA) annually hosts a special event that has become a beacon of connection and learning: EMA Day. This remarkable day brings together students and alumni from across the globe, creating a vibrant tapestry of cultures, experiences, and knowledge. In 2023, EMA Day expanded its horizons by stretching over two days, October 14 and 15, allowing even more people to join the celebration.
Theme of the Year: "Uncovering Skills"
Aligned with 2023 being the European Year of Skills, EMA Day's theme, "Uncovering Skills," encouraged participants to showcase their talents and perhaps discover new ones. It was an opportunity for community members to shine and inspire each other through their unique abilities and experiences.
EMA Day is not just for current students and alumni of Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EMJM) and Erasmus+ programs. It is an inclusive event for EMA members, their friends, and anyone interested in EMJMs. This openness reflects the spirit of EMA – an embrace of diversity and a passion for shared learning.
Understanding the diverse needs of its global community, EMA Day events were organized both in-person and online. This hybrid approach meant activities ranged from park meet-ups to online skill-sharing sessions. A highlight was the main virtual global event, ensuring that no one missed out on the fun, regardless of their location.
A Global Success Story
The seamless organization of EMA Day was a testament to the collaborative efforts of various EMA units and sub-units. Spearheaded by the Talent Management Unit and its Community Development sub-unit, the organising team also included the Communications Unit (Social Media & Design), the Student and Alumni Relations Unit (PRNet), and the Outreach and Capacity Building Unit (CRNet).
The scale of EMA Day 2023 was nothing short of impressive: There were thirty-seven registered activities, half of which were online and the other in person. The locations spanned continents, from Munich to Jakarta and Glasgow to Johannesburg, not forgetting La Paz or Cuenca. In total, there were over 1500 attendees across all activities.
These numbers reflect a global community's eagerness to connect, learn, and celebrate diversity.
Reflecting on EMA Day 2023
EMA Day 2023 was more than just a series of events; it was a vibrant celebration of skills, learning, and global connection. It exemplified the spirit of Erasmus Mundus – an unwavering commitment to building bridges across cultures and fostering a community of learning and mutual support.
As we look back on the success of EMA Day 2023, we are reminded of the power of community and the endless opportunities that arise when we come together to share our skills and experiences. Here's to many more years of celebrating the rich tapestry of our global EMA community!
We hope to see you next year as we continue to celebrate learning, diversity, and connections. Let's make EMA Day 2024 even bigger and better!