ERASMUS DAYS 2026: A European experience that transforms education and science!

Vasyl Stefanyk Carpathian National University hosted an event as part of the international “Erasmus Days 2026” initiative, themed “Erasmus+ at the University: An Experience That Unlocks Opportunities.” Participants shared the outcomes of international projects and their experiences collaborating with European partners, while also discussing new opportunities offered by the Erasmus+ program. During the thematic session “European Benchmarks: An Experience That Transforms the University,” Olga Khatsevych presented the MEOEU project—”Monitoring of Environmental Objects in the Context of European Integration”—implemented under the Erasmus+ Jean Monnet program. MEOEU focuses on disseminating European expertise in environmental monitoring, studying EU environmental policy, and aligning Ukrainian education with European standards. A significant achievement of the project has been the integration of academic education with practical outreach activities, including lecture courses for chemistry students, elective modules, open lectures, and webinars for teachers and educators in the natural sciences. With 360 teaching hours, dozens of educational events, and the active involvement of university students, school pupils, and the teaching community, the project has made a substantial contribution to developing environmental competence and promoting European values. Particular emphasis is placed on the practical aspects of air and water quality monitoring, the accessibility of environmental information, and the right of every individual to a safe environment. Erasmus Days 2026 served as an excellent opportunity to present the results of MEOEU, share experiences of international cooperation, and affirm that European integration begins with concrete changes in education, science, and society!