We are a network driven by purpose. We are a generation that believes in cooperation, in openness and in the power of education to shape a better future.
From 16 to 19 April 2026, Split became the meeting point for the Erasmus Generation as more than 1,200 participants gathered for the fifth edition of the Erasmus Generation Meeting (EGM). Organised by the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) together with ESN Croatia and ESN Split, Europe’s largest student-led conference on the internationalisation of higher education focused on Shaping Skills through Student Mobility.
Across four days, participants explored how volunteering and international mobility contribute to the development of competences while discussing how the skills gained through these experiences can be better recognised by universities, employers and society. Guided by the slogan Port of Mobility, Gateway to Skills the programme featured more than 100 sessions, networking opportunities and cultural activities that celebrated both the diversity and impact of the Erasmus Generation.
The conference was made possible through the support of its partners, with the University of Split serving as the main partner and hosting the conference programme across its Faculty of Science and Faculty of Economics, while Gripe Hall welcomed participants for the opening and closing ceremonies and other joint moments. ESN is also grateful for the support of the Municipality of Split, Split-Dalmatia County, Student Center Split, and the European Commission, whose collaboration contributed to the successful delivery of EGM Split 2026.
A Warm Welcome to Split
The conference opened with the traditional Flag Parade through the streets of Split, bringing together hundreds of participants carrying the colours of their countries. The parade once again transformed the city centre into a celebration of international friendship and intercultural exchange, inviting both residents and visitors to experience the spirit of Erasmus.
The Opening Ceremony welcomed participants to Croatia with addresses from representatives of the University of Split, the City of Split, the Croatian Agency for Mobility and EU Programmes (AMPEU), the Organising Committee, ESN Croatia and ESN International. Alongside cultural performances showcasing local heritage, the programme also featured a panel discussion exploring how mobility shapes personal and professional development through the Erasmus+ journey.
Four Days of Learning, Exchange and Inspiration
Throughout the conference, participants had the opportunity to select their personal programme from 111 sessions built around two main pillars.
The first, Development of Competences through Volunteering and Student-led Mobility, explored how volunteering, student engagement and different mobility formats help young people develop valuable personal and professional competences while ensuring mobility remains accessible and inclusive. The second pillar, Impact and Recognition of Student Engagement, focused on recognising the knowledge and skills acquired through volunteering, formal and non-formal learning, and international experiences, reinforcing their value for higher education institutions, employers and society.
Beyond the sessions, participants connected at the EGM Expo, where ESN countries and partners showcased mobility opportunities, projects and initiatives. The conference also provided space for networking, exchanging best practices and building new collaborations across Europe and beyond.
Celebrating the Erasmus Generation
One of the highlights of the Closing Ceremony was the Erasmus Destination of the Year competition. Following inspiring presentations from the finalist cities: Gothenburg, Istanbul, Munich, Santander and Turin. Turin was elected Erasmus Destination of the Year 2026. A city where historic elegance meets contemporary innovation, Turin impressed the audience with its unique blend of baroque and royal heritage framed by the Alps, alongside its vibrant academic scene, thriving culture of research and creativity, world-class museums, serene green spaces, and a renowned culinary tradition famous for its chocolate.
The Closing Ceremony also recognised the dedication of volunteers across the network through the annual ESN Awards and thanked everyone who contributed to making the event possible, from the Organising Committee and local volunteers to the Content Team, speakers, partners and participants.
As the ceremony came to an end, the audience was treated to a special video announcing the next host of the Erasmus Generation Meeting. In an emotional handover, Wrocław, Poland, was revealed as the destination for EGM 2027, marking the beginning of preparations for the next chapter of the Erasmus Generation.
As participants left Split with new ideas, friendships and inspiration, one message remained clear: student mobility is about much more than travelling abroad. It is about developing skills, building communities and empowering young people to shape the future of Europe together.
For those who want to relive the magic or experience it for the first time, the official after movie of the event is a perfect way to get the chills from the EGM spirit and recordings of all ceremonies and plenaries are available on YouTube. The official photos from the conference are also out on Flickr. Make sure to also check out the coverage of the whole event on Bluesky and Instagram!
The torch has been passed and the countdown for Erasmus Generation Meeting Wrocław 2027 officially begins.
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