Launching Inclusion+: Setting the Stage for Change

Tht Kick Off meeting Inclusion+ Project, took place at Iscte, on the 11th ansd 12th of January 2024. “Coordinating researcher Thais França leads the “Inclusion+” project, which aims to address the challenges of inclusion and diversity in the context of Erasmus+ program mobility in higher education. This project was recently approved for funding by the Erasmus+ KA220-HED program – Cooperation partnerships in higher education. The main aim of the project is to tackle the barriers faced by students with fewer opportunities to participate in international mobility, specifically students with caring responsibilities and students with disabilities. “Inclusion+” aims to improve the capacity of partner higher education institutions (HEIs) to carry out student exchanges in an inclusive manner, as well as promoting the inclusion of host cities in relation to international students. Fotografia de Hugo Alexandre Cruz.

The Inclusion+ project was officially launched in January 2024 with a dynamic two-day
hybrid meeting hosted at Iscte in Lisbon. Bringing together the team in person and online, the
kick-off was vital to aligning our goals, mapping out the year ahead, and sparking
momentum. Beyond setting priorities—like launching key activities and engaging both
students and Erasmus+ professionals—the meeting fostered connection, collaboration, and a
renewed sense of purpose. Together, we’re committed to driving forward a more inclusive
and diverse Erasmus+ mobility experience.