Arqus highlights the role of internationalisation at Spain’s national Erasmus+ conference

The University of Jaén (UJA) has become a meeting point for the internationalisation of higher education in Spain this week, hosting the national Erasmus+ Higher Education mobility conferences organised by the Spanish Service for the Internationalisation of Education (SEPIE), in collaboration with the University of Jaén.

The event, held from 29 September to 1 October, brings together higher education professionals from across Spain to discuss the latest developments in Erasmus+ mobility, share experiences and good practices, and reflect on the future of international cooperation in higher education.

The programme covers both intra-European mobility and the international dimension of Erasmus+, including mobility projects with partner countries beyond Europe. Sessions address the implementation and results of the 2026 Erasmus+ calls, practical experiences from participating institutions, and the forthcoming Erasmus+ programme framework for 2028-2034.

The University of Jaén’s role as host reflects its longstanding commitment to internationalisation. The university has developed extensive experience in international mobility, particularly through Erasmus+ Key Action 171, supporting cooperation with partners beyond the European Union.

Against this backdrop, Dorothy Kelly, Former Arqus Coordinator, was present at the University of Jaén during the event to highlight Arqus’ relevance, connecting the Spanish experience with the broader European perspective on university internationalisation.

The conference also provides an opportunity to reflect on how international mobility contributes to more connected, inclusive and outward-looking higher education institutions. As universities continue to strengthen their international partnerships, initiatives such as Erasmus+ and the European Universities Initiative play an important role in creating opportunities for students and staff, fostering institutional cooperation and building stronger connections across borders.

For Arqus, exchanges of experience such as this are an important part of the ongoing dialogue on the future of European higher education and on how university alliances can contribute to deeper and more sustainable international cooperation.