Erasmus +  Success Stories

Erasmus+ Period: April – June 2025 

Scholarship Background

The Erasmus+ Mobility Scholarship is an initiative from the European Union designed to promote international academic exchange, cooperation, and mutual understanding among higher education institutions. This mobility opportunity was made possible through a collaborative agreement between the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) and the Medical University of Sofia, Bulgaria. The scholarship supports research-based mobility for Master’s and PhD students in the fields of Pharmacy, Nursing, and Public Health. For the 2025 cycle, three scholarships were awarded to UKZN students—one for a PhD and two for Master’s level research mobility.

Objectives

The Erasmus+ Mobility Scholarship Program is designed to:

1. Promote mutual understanding, cultural exchange, and international academic cooperation

2. Enhance academic knowledge and research capacity through cross-border collaboration

3. Foster personal and professional development through intercultural learning

4. Strengthen global partnerships in higher education and research

Academic Experience

During the mobility period, I participated in a collaborative research project on “Social Determinants of Health and TB Outcomes: A Cross-Regional Literature Comparison.” This initiative was co-developed with academic staff and Erasmus+ officials at the Medical University of Sofia. The project enhanced my understanding of social determinants influencing TB outcomes in South Africa and Bulgaria, while also highlighting systemic gaps in global health responses. Additionally, I took part in the Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) titled “Tackling Misinformation and Disinformation to Regain Trust in Public Health,” which provided critical insights into managing information during public health crises, particularly in the context of COVID-19.

Exposure to the Health Care System of Bulgaria

As part of my international scholarship experience, I had the opportunity to join a group of students from Argentina on a guided visit to two prominent Bulgarian hospitals, the Military Medical Academy and Tokuda Hospital. This educational tour offered valuable insights into Bulgaria's healthcare system and hospital operations.

During the visit, we explored several key departments, including the Paediatrics Unit, Clinical Laboratory, Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and medical training facilities. Each section demonstrated the integration of technology, patient care protocols, and multidisciplinary collaboration within the hospital setting. I was particularly impressed by the ICU’s high level of organization and the advanced diagnostic equipment in the laboratory.

Cultural Experience

Staying in a student dormitory with peers from various European and Asian countries offered a vibrant and enriching cultural exchange. Informal interactions, such as cooking together and sharing meals, provided a unique window into different traditions and lifestyles. I also participated in local cultural events, including the LUNAR Festival of Lights, and engaged in a traditional Bulgarian dance session organized as part of the BIP, alongside students from Serbia, Finland, and other countries.

Personal Growth

This scholarship experience significantly enhanced my communication skills, adaptability, and cross-cultural competence. Immersing myself in a new environment not only strengthened my confidence but also deepened my commitment to a career in public health, with a strong focus on collaborative international research.

As part of this enriching experience, on 3 June 2025, a colleague and I hiked to the popular Boyana Mountain. We challenged ourselves by walking approximately 7 kilometers from our dormitory, guided by Google Maps, to reach the mountain. The hike was physically demanding due to the steep terrain, but it was a rewarding experience. Along the way, we interacted with fellow hikers from various countries who had also come to visit the famous Boyana Waterfall. This experience not only tested our physical endurance but also offered a valuable opportunity for cultural exchange and connection with nature.

Experiencing Bulgaria’s Public Transport and Active Lifestyle Culture

During my two-month stay in Bulgaria, I was greatly impressed by the efficiency and accessibility of the country's public transport system. The Metro trains and buses were always available, reliable, and easy to navigate—even for a newcomer. This made commuting across Sofia both convenient and enjoyable.

As I became more familiar with the Metro, I learned and frequently used station names such as Vitosha, James Boucher, European Union, and National Palace of Culture. Each name carried a unique cultural or historical significance, which added a layer of learning to my daily travel experience.

Beyond transport, I observed that walking is an integral part of Bulgarian daily life. Many residents, including those I interacted with in my neighborhood, regularly walk to shopping malls, markets, and parks, often accompanied by their pets. I had the pleasure of joining some of them on walks to and from parking areas, which allowed me to engage in casual conversations and better understand the local lifestyle.

This exposure not only enhanced my appreciation for environmentally sustainable urban living but also highlighted the connection between public infrastructure and community health. The experience reinforced the importance of promoting physical activity and accessible transport in public health strategies.

Conclusion

The Erasmus+ Mobility Scholarship has been a transformative academic and personal journey. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity and highly recommend this program to other postgraduate students seeking to broaden their global perspective and research experience in public health and related fields.