Sofia Corradi, founder of Erasmus, dies at 91

Monday 20 October 2025 - 11:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Sofia Corradi, founder of Erasmus, dies at 91

Sofia Corradi, the visionary behind the European Union's Erasmus program, passed away in Rome at the age of 91, according to Italian media reports on Saturday. Known affectionately as "Mamma Erasmus," Corradi's lifelong dedication to fostering international education transformed the lives of millions of students across Europe.

Her family described her as a woman of "great energy and intellectual and emotional generosity," highlighting her profound influence as an educator and innovator. A professor of education at Roma Tre University, Corradi's journey began in her 20s when she earned a Fulbright scholarship. This opportunity took her to Columbia University in New York, where she completed a master's degree in law.

Upon returning to Italy, Corradi faced the frustration of having her academic achievements unrecognized by the Italian education system. This experience inspired her to envision an international exchange program, which ultimately became the Erasmus initiative, officially launched in 1987. Since its inception, over 16 million students have benefited from the program, which promotes collaboration between universities and higher education institutions across Europe.

Corradi often referred to the Erasmus program as her "personal pacifist mission," emphasizing its origins during the Cold War as a bridge to foster unity and understanding among European nations. Beyond her work on Erasmus, she conducted research on the right to education for institutions such as the United Nations' Human Rights Commission, The Hague Academy of International Law, and the London School of Economics.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani praised Corradi’s legacy, stating that she "inspired the lives of millions of young people who have travelled, studied, and embraced different cultures," and credited her with fostering the emergence of "Generation Europe." France's Minister Delegate for European Affairs Benjamin Haddad also honored her contributions, acknowledging the debt of gratitude owed by generations of young Europeans.

Sofia Corradi’s groundbreaking vision continues to shape the future of international education, leaving an enduring legacy of cultural exchange and cooperation.