It may be the second-smallest continent, but Europe boasts many of the world’s best higher educational institutions. In the latest QS World University Rankings, almost 40 per cent of all universities on the list were located in Europe.

Reinforcing this position as a leading destination for higher education, the EU Delegation to the Philippines, alongside EU Member States (EUMS), recently organised the European Higher Education Fair (EHEF) in the Philippines under the theme “Study in Europe: EUr Journey to Excellence”.

As part of the EU's commitment to fostering an open and inclusive higher education system in Europe, the 1,200 participants were given the opportunity to meet with representatives from more than 30 EU universities and higher education institutions in Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Sweden and Spain to gain comprehensive information about study programmes.

Meanwhile, Erasmus+ alumni and EUMS representatives shared insights and testimonials on the advantages of living and studying in Europe. The majority of alumni endorsements highlighted the invaluable social exchanges that come with studying abroad, as well as the opportunities to develop multicultural partnerships and gain a better understanding of different cultures.

Erasmus+, the EU's flagship programme to support education, training, youth and sport in Europe, encourages students in partner countries to embark upon higher education courses. From 2014 to 2019, 260 Filipino students were awarded Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters scholarships, joining courses at various EU-based universities. The one- and two-year programmes offer them the opportunity to live, travel and study in at least two European countries, with expenses covered by the EU.

Hosted at the Lyceum of the Philippines University - Cavite Campus on 28 October, the fair also allows European and Philippine higher education institutions to explore partnership opportunities, mobility exchanges, joint research undertakings, and other forms of higher education cooperation.