Empowering Global Futures: Erasmus Mundus Sharing Session Inspires Thai Students

On May 8, 2025, Navamindradhiraj University in Thailand hosted a vibrant Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Sharing Session (EMSSS), uniting local students, alumni, and EU representatives. The event was led by Dr. Collins Santhanasamy (EMA Board Member) and Ms. Phumjit Sri-udomkajorn (EMA Thailand Representative). Through inspiring talks, personal stories, and expert guidance, participants explored the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJMD) program. Held in hybrid format, the session aimed to strengthen the Erasmus+ alumni network in Thailand and guide prospective scholars. Attendees left empowered with knowledge, networks, and new aspirations for international education and cross-cultural connection.

On a sunny afternoon in Bangkok, the Erasmus Mundus Association brought inspiration and opportunity to Navamindradhiraj University with the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Sharing Session (EMSSS). Held on May 8, 2025, this public event was designed to inform and inspire future scholars in Thailand about the prestigious Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJMD) program.

Dr. Collins Santhanasamy, EMA Board Member and Director of Partnerships, along with Ms. Phumjit Sri-udomkajorn, EMA Country Representative for Thailand, co-hosted the hybrid session—offered both in-person and via the university’s official Facebook livestream. Attendees included curious students, enthusiastic alumni, and university staff, all eager to learn more about studying in Europe through Erasmus+.

The event began with a warm welcome from Assistant Professor Chunlanee Sangketchon, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Health Technology, who set a positive and hopeful tone for the afternoon. Mr. Tom Corrie, First Counsellor and Head of Cooperation at the Delegation of the European Union to Thailand, followed with an insightful overview of the EU’s role in Thailand and a brief introduction to Erasmus+ programs, reinforcing the EU's commitment to academic collaboration.

One of the highlights of the session was a heartfelt presentation by Dr. Gawin Tiyawat, an alumnus of the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree in Public Health in Disasters (EMJM PHID) program and a current faculty member. His personal story of mobility, cultural exchange, and academic discovery illustrated how Erasmus transforms not just careers, but lives. From forging friendships to growing professionally, his message resonated with attendees looking to follow in his footsteps.

Dr. Collins Santhanasamy took the audience deeper into the workings of EMA, showcasing the Erasmus Mundus Catalogue and offering practical advice for prospective applicants. His emphasis on global support networks and resources gave attendees a clear roadmap for navigating the application process.

Adding a personal and relatable touch, Ms. Phumjit Sri-udomkajorn shared her journey as an EMLE alumna, focusing on the real-life aspects of studying in Europe—academics, building friendships, navigating life abroad, and of course, travel. Her story reflected the vibrant, multicultural experience at the heart of Erasmus Mundus.

The two-hour session wrapped up with a networking event and faculty mini-tour, hosted by the welcoming staff of Navamindradhiraj University. Connections were made, questions were answered, and inspiration was sparked.

📧 For more information about Erasmus Mundus opportunities in Thailand, reach out to Ms. Phumjit Sri-udomkajorn at thailand@em-a.eu.

📺 Missed the event? This event was livestreamed and its recording can be viewed here. 

By Ms. Phumjit Sri-udomkajorn,

EMA Country Representative to Thailand.

*This event was funded by a grant from the European Commission (DG EAC) through the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA), under the Erasmus+ Student and Alumni Alliance (ESAA) Work Package 3.2.3, supporting members in sharing their Erasmus+ experiences at an individual level. The Erasmus Mundus Association’s Project Support Unit (PSU) provided vital support to activity leads, greatly contributing to the event’s success.