Graduates could soon be awarded a pan-European degree from a group of universities, as part of new plans unveiled by the European Commission.
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00:00 Students in Europe could soon earn a special European degree as part of new plans unveiled
00:07 by Brussels. Universities across the EU`s 27 countries would team up to offer joint
00:13 degree programs recognized everywhere across the bloc. The European Commission says the
00:18 scheme has huge potential.
00:21 This convinced will be the next big thing in the process of a Europe that is understandable.
00:29 The European degree will find its place next to Schengen, next to Erasmus, next to the
00:36 single market, next to the Euro as concrete European accomplishments.
00:44 But students would need to study in more than one EU country to get the degree. And with
00:49 no extra funding for the program, it`s unclear how the commission will ensure it`s accessible
00:55 to students of all social backgrounds and doesn`t become an elitist label.
01:01 I think that what we are doing here today is only contrary to an elitist approach.
01:08 It is all inclusive and open to anyone, to any university from any member state.
01:14 The commission says the proposal will complement Erasmus+, arguably the EU`s most recognizable
01:20 program in which it invests 26.2 billion euros over six years. And Erasmus students can receive
01:27 up to 390 euros in monthly grants.
01:32 But the plans could face hurdles. It is unclear how the degrees could be recognized given
01:37 that there is currently no automatic EU-wide recognition of academic diplomas. Some member
01:44 states also fear Brussels could be encroaching on their national competences.
01:49 [SWOOSH]