ERASMUS Structural networks
Structural Networks are designed to help improve and modernise a specific aspect of higher education access, mobility, organisation, management and the development of the knowledge triangle.
Which criteria must a network fulfil?
- All networks should bring together an appropriate range of relevant stakeholders concerned by the theme addressed (academic and other organisations such as associations, enterprises, professional bodies, and, where appropriate, student organisations).
- Co-operation within networks is expected to lead to outcomes which will have a lasting and widespread impact on Higher education institutions across Europe in the field concerned.
- They require participation of at least 5 institutions from 5 different LLP participating countries.
- One of the organisations participating in the network project must act as the co-ordinator (although other network partners may take the lead on different phases of the work programme).
- It is vital that the whole of the network be actively associated with its activities.
Which activities does this action support?
- Priority is given to the following activities:
- Access to higher education: : key issues including stimulating mobility and widening access for non-traditional learners such as people from disadvantaged socio-economic background, professionals, older learners and people with non-formal qualifications, enhancing access to funding for learning and the recognition of prior non formal and informal learning.
- The organisation and management of Higher education institutions: : key issues include enhancing autonomy and accountability for universities, improved staff management systems, and the implementation of both internal and external quality assurance mechanisms in line with the standards and guidelines for quality assurance in the European Higher Education Area as adopted in Bergen in 2005.
- The “knowledge triangle” of education, research and innovation: key issues include the reinforcement of links between higher education teaching and research and its application in industry and enterprise, and the establishment of learning regions centred on universities as a driving force for regional development.
- Network proposals focusing on subject areas and themes not sufficiently covered by networks already being funded under this action are particularly encouraged, in order to arrive at an optimal coverage of key aspects of higher education development and management.
What is expected of the network?
As a minimum, each network is expected to carry out the following operational activities:- Establish a website and other appropriate tools to support information exchange and dissemination;
- Produce an annual report on the state of innovation in its area of activity;
- Provide the ‘players’ in ERASMUS with full information about the network’s events and activities;
- Organise an annual meeting in the thematic area of the network. The meeting may also bring together representatives of other Erasmus-supported activities in the field concerned including notably multilateral projects. It can take the form of an open seminar or conference, thereby encouraging collaboration between Erasmus-supported projects and other relevant inititiatives;
- Take appropriate measures regarding the evaluation of the network's performance.
What grant is available?
- A maximum of 200.000/year
- The maximum EU contribution is 75%.
Duration
Maximum 3 years Who can apply
- Higher education institutions holding a full duration ERASMUS University Charter
- Public bodies, enterprises, associations and other relevant organisations active in relation to higher education
- Partner organisations from countries not participating in the Lifelong Learning Programme. These cannot be the coordinating organisation.
How to apply?
Respond to the yearly call for proposals- Applications are to be filed with the Executive Agency.
- Further information is available on the Executive Agency's website
