The end of the middle ages is often thought of as the era of new opportunities; a period rich in literary, artistic and scientific exchanges. Erasmus was a key figure of this era and contributed significantly through his intellectual work, his travel and his correspondences throughout Europe. As a key member of the Republic of Letters, he earned his nickname “The Prince of the Humanists”.
More than four centuries later, when Europe was seeking a name for its new mobility programme, the suggestion of “Erasmus” was well received by all as an excellent choice. This was back in 1987.
Twenty years on, the Erasmus programme is still running and is running just fine, but if it took a step up to the next level it could be even better. In order to have 3 million students participating in the programme by 2012, various obstacles need to be overcome.
It will be worth the trouble. To illustrate how wonderful and enriching the Erasmus experience can be, we link you to this song “Sul tetto del mondo” by the former Erasmus student Martina Reggiani.
So in the words of this young composer, let’s do our best to help the ever-growing number of students and apprentices to get onto the “the roof of the world”.
