From December 5 to 6, EfVET actively participated in the Do Your Mob 2024 event, hosted in Catania by Scuola Centrale Formazione. The conference, centered on transnational learning mobility, placed a special emphasis this year on the intersection between young people’s well-being and international learning experiences.

 

 

The event explored critical themes such as emotional well-being in mobility programs and the influence of rapid technological advancements on mental health. Participants also engaged in eight interactive workshops designed to foster collaboration and deepen understanding of learning mobility’s transformative role in youth development. 

EfVET highlighted findings from recent follow-up studies on mobility projects, emphasizing the urgent need to improve emotional preparation and mental well-being for participants. This approach spurred insightful discussions on how to enhance international mobility experiences. 

Key Statistics on Global Student Mobility 

International student mobility reflects a growing trend worldwide. Here are some key statistics to contextualize the discussion: 

• Over 220 million students globally (2022, UNESCO). 

• 40 million students in Europe, representing 18% of the global total (second to Asia). 

• 6 million international students globally (2021, World Migration Report). 

• 36% of mobile students globally study in Europe (2022, UNESCO).  

• Of these, 43% originate from other European countries, 25% from Asia, and 17% from Africa (2022, European Commission). 

• Approximately 28% of EU mobile students choose destinations outside the EU (2021, T.I.M.E. Association). 

International mobility benefits individuals and societies, fostering global understanding, intercultural exchange, and skills development. Erasmus+ alumni, for example, report remarkable outcomes: 

• 80% are employed within three months of graduation. 

• 93% enhance cultural awareness and 91% improve language skills, aligning with the top skills sought by employers. 

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To improve the experiences of students venturing abroad, it is crucial to address factors that significantly impact their well-being. 

Key Areas for Improvement 

• Financial Barriers 

Living costs and tuition fees often hinder students’ ability to fully participate in social and academic activities. 

Solutions: Expand scholarships, provide grants, and offer affordable housing options.

• Mental Health Support 

Students face emotional challenges such as homesickness, academic stress, and social pressures. 

Solutions: Increase access to counseling, mental health resources, and peer support networks. 

• Social Integration 

Cultural norms, language barriers, and unfamiliar social practices can isolate students. 

Solutions: Organize social events, create student clubs, and establish networking platforms to promote community building. 

• Administrative Procedures 

Complex visa processes, health insurance, banking, and housing arrangements can be overwhelming. 

Solutions: Streamline administrative procedures and provide clear guides or info kits for international students. 

• Academic Pressure 

High expectations and limited academic support can impact students’ performance. 

Solutions: Offer workshops for educators, academic counseling, and tutoring services to better support students. 

 

EfVET wants to thank Scuola Centrale Formazione for hosting an exceptional event. The discussions and workshops reinforced the importance of addressing these challenges to enrich the quality of learning mobility experiences. 

EfVET’s Thematic Team on Internationalization and Learning Mobility remains committed to creating platforms for sharing best practices and enhancing Erasmus+ initiatives. By prioritizing well-being, we can ensure that learning mobility continues to empower young people to thrive both personally and professionally. 

 

 

Sources: 

OECD Education at a Glance, UNESCO International Student Mobility, European Commission Erasmus+, World Migration Report, ROI-MOB by Luigi Fabbris and Luca Boetti, European Commission.