A two-week initiative will provide opportunities for international students to learn how one can contribute to improvement of society as European citizens. During this edition, the focus is on the importance of the social impact international volunteers can have on the local communities and on making inclusive events.
“In line with the European Union Youth Strategy, it is part of ESNs mission to enrich the experience of international students by making them more aware of the need to be inclusive and of the positive consequences of this action. It is our firm belief that the Social Inclusion Days will make a strong contribution to the cause and that these students will return home as more active and socially engaged citizens”, says João Pinto, the President of Erasmus Student Network.
The mission of ESN Social Inclusion initiative is to provide young citizens with the opportunity to do more during their mobility experience, to make a difference and to create a positive social change through volunteering. 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. Also, they will show others that the mobility does not only consist of travelling or studying abroad but also of active engagement. 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, clothes donations, animal shelter visits, educational workshops, conferences, and many more events that promote social inclusion.
