The Erasmus+ programme is a unique scheme that has allowed students from the UK and the EU to travel, study and experience new cultures. It has opened avenues to disadvantaged students who otherwise would not have been able to afford studying abroad.
Scotland has received €60m funding across 700 individual projects from the EU’s Erasmus+ scheme since 2014 – this cannot be put at risk by a careless Tory government intent on putting party interests before the interests of the country.
A Tory-driven Brexit is already hitting the economy, businesses and jobs. It is high time the chaos and instability came to an end so that our future generations are able to benefit from the rights we have shared and enjoyed with the EU.
Whilst our EU neighbours take steps to safeguard learning opportunities for students, the Tory government in contrast is in danger of ripping away those rights and opportunities due to its damaging and ideological Brexit plans.
The UK government must now urgently follow the EU’s lead in taking steps to protect the interests and opportunities of students. As the clock ticks down to Brexit day in March, the Education Secretary must commit to funding all 2019/20 Erasmus+ study abroad placements beyond March and in the event of a no deal Brexit.
