Erasmus Student Network, the biggest student association in Europe, is bringing once again a new edition of the Social Inclusion Days, a program which aims to empower more than 500 ESN section and help them to focus on social issues.

The campaign is starting today, on the 16 of April 2018 and will end on the 29 of April 2018.

It will be two intensive weeks, where students and volunteers can have the chance to improve their knowledge, know more about disabilities and contribute to society.

It will provide opportunities for international students to learn how one can contribute to the improvement of society as European citizens. During this edition, the focus is on the importance of the social impact international volunteers have upon the local communities and upon making inclusive events.

“The Social Inclusion days celebrate ESN's mission. During two weeks, more than 530 ESN local sections will bring Erasmus students closer to their host communities while also promoting a more inclusive Erasmus+ programme, particularly for students with disabilities. Thousands of ESN volunteers will be united in activities that ultimately meet the priorities set by the Renewed EU Agenda for Higher Education and by the Social Summit in Gothenburg. SocialErasmus and ExchangeAbility, the ESN programmes on the spotlight during the Social Inclusion days, enrich our society by implementing activities where international students and local citizens become a single community united in diversity. These are not just any days, they are the days where we celebrate a Europe that is truly included in the Erasmus+ programme.João Pinto, President of Erasmus Student Network AISBL

It is our firm belief that the Social Inclusion Days will make a strong contribution to the cause of social inclusion and that these students will return home as more active and socially engaged citizens. Besides this, international volunteers have a better chance in expanding their knowledge of other cultures and educational systems and in having a first-hand experience with the locals. Through their engagement, students enrich their curricula, gain experiences, knowledge, understanding and a sense of appreciation for Europe. While celebrating and enjoying their Erasmus+ experience, students and young people will have a chance to take part in activities such as food drives and donations, fundraisers, mapping universities for accessibility, animal shelter visits, educational workshops, conferences, and many more events that promote social inclusion.

It is also a chance to celebrate this two international days, which are highly connected to the program:

  • 22 April; International Mother Earth Day
  • 28 April; World Day for Safety and Health at Work

Of course, many other activities will be settled by each ESN sections so we encourage you to participate in our Facebook event to keep you up-to-date!

For further dissemination, feel free to use our Press Release below.