A group of MPs has launched an enquiry into the likely impact of Brexit on international opportunities for young people.
The Erasmus+ programme offers funding for young people who wish t to study and gain work experience in Europe. It is the successor to the earlier Erasmus programme (European Region Action Scheme for the Mobility of University Students), originally established in 1987, which, as the name suggests, was focused on students. The + scheme, by contrast, is also open to apprentices, trainees and volunteers, as well as people who work directly with young people such as youth workers. At least £7 million has been funnelled to young groups across the UK by the scheme over the last year.
Now, amidst concerns that British young people will be excluded following Brexit, the Education Select Committee is examine the likely status of the programme following the country’s departure from the European Union. Also under consideration will be the implications of Brexit for UK universities and their relationship with institutes of higher education in Europe, with the Committee asking whether student and academic exchange programmes will still be possible.
Committee chair Neil Carmichael MP said:
“The committee is keen to hear from university leaders, academics, students and others, as we examine the opportunities for higher education post-Brexit and consider what the government’s priorities should be for the sector going into the negotiations with the EU.”
The deadline for written submissions is November 11.
