Wednesday's Erasmus+ Information Session at the University of Juba went on smoothly, with presentations all aimed at facilitating the application process for masters scholarships, capacity building and exchange of academic programmes for lecturers between European Union (EU) and South Sudanese universities.

The ErasmusPlus National Focal Points from South Sudan, Animu A. Risasi Amitai, Temwa Moyo from South Africa and Private Michenga from Malawi presented the different components of the Erasmus+ programme.

Opening the briefing, the Deputy Head of the EU Mission in South Sudan said that student exchanges through Erasmus+ scholarships, capacity building and other opportunities are an important part of the EU's Compact for Jobs and Growth in Africa.

"Integration underpins the logic of the Erasmus programme. It is an integration of exchanges, ideas, learning and educational opportunities," said Lothar Jaschke.  "It is one of the most successful unifying programmes in the history of European integration. It is therefore right that Erasmus is now open to all countries of the world, including South Sudan."

EUDSSD

No South Sudanese student has successfully applied for the Erasmus Mundus Masters and Joint Masters so far. Nevertheless, at least two South Sudanese universities have cooperation partnership agreements with two European Universities and are participating in activities under the Erasmus Programme. 

Prof. Robert Mayom Deng, the Vice-Chancellor of Juba University, who also represented the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, urged students and lecturers to actively use Erasmus+ opportunities and pledged to support them.  

EUDSSD

"No student has applied for many years. We will make sure you get the information you need to feel comfortable applying,” the Vice Chancellor said. “I will ask Prof. Blackings Mairi and two other members to get the information needed to help students apply for these Erasmus Mundus Masters Scholarships. There will be a small committee chaired by Prof Mairi to guide you."

The minimum requirement for the master's scholarship is a second-class upper (2.1), and only those with a bachelor's degree can apply.  A successful student receives about €33,600 to cover tuition fees, upkeep, flight tickets, accommodation and other expenses for a maximum of 24 months.

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EUDSSD

At least 170 (20 online) students, lecturers, NGOs and think tanks from Juba City attended the three-hour briefing. The Erasmus+ programme opens for next intake on 30 November.