During the 2021–2027 programme cycle, Erasmus+ encouraged higher education institutions and their students to actively engage with political and social issues within the European Union and to create and participate in democratic processes , at different levels, including within the leaning systems, through the «Participation in Democratic Life» pillar. SALTO («Support, Advanced Learning & Training Opportunities») Participation and Information Resource Centre works to ensure all Programme actors have evidence-based guidance, inspiration and tools for this work. Active in the Youth sector since 2018, the European Commission enlarged the mandate of SALTO PI. Find more about it here to cover general and vocational education in 2023.
To obtain an overview of the scientific literature on the importance of participation in higher education, SALTO commissioned Tomaž Deželan, an expert in higher education policy and citizenship education at the University of Ljubljana. His insights into the various aspects of participation in higher education and its impact offer a concise overview of the social dimension. An introductory article is available on Participation Resource Poolpage.
The theoretical approaches illustrate what promoting democratic participation in higher education entails, providing examples of how it is already taking place in higher education institutions. They also offer suggestions and arguments on how students can be more closely integrated into democratic processes and social projects. The video “Expert webinar Participation in Higher Education from the Participation Academy of SALTO PI” offers a preview of five forms how democratic participation can be successfully achieved in higher education.
There are many aspects to student participation at universities, ranging from student co-determination and political engagement to civic participation. Students take responsibility for issues that are relevant to them personally and to society as a whole. Through their activities, students gain knowledge, skills and perspectives that are important for their future careers and the goals of the "Union of Skills", but also to allow them to exercise their right to be heard by decision-makers.
In line with their mandate to provide political education and promote democracy, higher education institutions can encourage students to participate in democratic processes, such as serving on committees that oversee higher education. Student representation can also become more professionalised through institutional initiatives. Students at higher education institutions also often initiate political activism. Additionally, many students volunteer in the social sector. Consequently higher education institutions play a multifaceted role, ranging from integration within the structure of higher education administration and curricula, to the development of trust and tolerance and the promotion of critical thinking and social engagement.
As well as participating in higher education committees, students can also contribute to the administration of higher education institutions and be involved in curriculum development. At European higher education institutions, student representatives typically participate in decision-making processes and administrative functions. This aims to build trust and strengthen cooperation between students and institutions, as well as improving organisational structures. Through these activities, student representatives acquire the necessary skills and knowledge for effective participation in management processes, including organisation, specialist knowledge and communication.
Another way for students to get involved is through student unions, groups and associations. These provide a platform for students to raise awareness of certain issues, form networks and exchange ideas, via events, for example. At an international level, student unions have formed networks and alliances to tackle challenges in higher education worldwide. European organisations such as the European Students' Union play a crucial role in representing students' rights and interests at a supranational level. They influence political decisions and helping to shape the future direction of higher education.
The professionalisation of the role of student representatives in the management of higher education institutions provides them with the necessary skills, knowledge and attitudes to participate effectively in management processes. This involves developing expertise and professional conduct, promoting engagement, communicating effectively and advocating for student interests. Together, these factors enhance the effectiveness and influence of student representatives in governance processes.
Political engagement or activism among students is often characterised as non-institutional political activity that differs from formal representation in official governing bodies. It typically involves publicly expressing new ideas, holding public debates on various topics, and using methods such as campaigns or demonstrations.
According to an article (Celio, C. I., Durlak, J., & Dymnicki, A. (2011). A meta-analysis of the impact of service-learning on students. Journal of Experiential Education, 34(2), 164–181) civic engagement can be a powerful tool for student development when implemented intentionally. It connects academic study to community involvement, preparing students for active and informed citizenship while enhancing their educational experience. Civic engagement contributes to both personal and academic growth, as research shows that structured opportunities for civic participation can yield positive outcomes for students.
Civic engagement, when offered as an additional option, can prepare students for active and informed citizenship, enhance their educational experience, and have a grassroots impact on society. Civic engagement contributes to personal and academic growth. Research shows that structured forms of civic engagement can foster students' professional and social competencies. With funding from the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR), the Erasmus+ National Agency Higher Education (NA DAAD) offers students concrete opportunities to undertake voluntary work through the "Local Erasmus+ Initiatives" and "Europe meets School" programmes. More information on this can be found here in the article "Student Engagement for Europe".
Higher education institutions can collaborate with their students to build bridges, expand knowledge and breathe life into democracy by inspiring them to actively influence their present and future. Let us use this key focus of Erasmus+ to create lasting momentum for democratic participation and social engagement – let us shape the Europe of tomorrow together!
For more information, inspiration stories and tools take a look at participationpool.eu
For some guiding questions to make your Erasmus+ project more aligned with participation priority, check out this short handout.
![[Translate to English:]](/fileadmin/_processed_/b/8/csm_Thomas-Kr%C3%BCger_by-Gordon_Welters_laif_c907ce9f12.jpg)
