Higher education: co-operation with third countries, Erasmus Mundus programme 2004-2008

The European Parliament adopted a resolution drafted by Marielle de SARNAZ (EPP-ED, France) and made several amendments to the Commission's proposal. (Please refer to the summary dated 17/03/03.) Other amendments stated: - Member States should consider the need for the programme to receive recognition so that participating students may have the option of validating the qualification obtained, and can take their postgraduate studies further by undertaking more specialised study such as a doctorate; - a new recital states that the programme will have an impact on the visibility and perception of the EU around the world, as well as building a capital of goodwill amongst those who have participated in the programme; - the Commission, in cooperation with the Member States, must ensure publicity and follow-up for the actions supported by the programme, as well as ensure the dissemination of the results of the actions; - there must be transparency in management, which is the joint responsibility of the Commission and the Member States; - an amendment to the annex, Action 4, on support to higher education institutions and non-profit organisations states that this must not exceed 3% of the total budget. Particular consideration must be given to organisations working on behalf of the less advantaged, such as women's rights organisations, in countries where there is an imbalance of equality.�