How Chamodi Senanayake, a Sri Lankan Scholar, Secured a Fully Funded Master’s in Sustainable Food Systems Through the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship

I’m Chamodi Senanayake from Sri Lanka. I got the opportunity to receive the full Erasmus Mundus scholarship for the European Master of Science in Sustainable Food Systems Engineering, Technology and Business (FOOD4S). It is a joint degree delivered by a consortium of four European partner universities: KU Leuven (Ghent, Belgium), Universidade Católica Portuguesa (Porto, Portugal), Anhalt University (Köthen, Germany), and University College Dublin (Dublin, Ireland).

Educational Background

I hold a BSc (Honours) degree in Food Science and Technology from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka, where I graduated with a First-Class (GPA 3.86/4.00). During my undergraduate studies, I actively engaged in projects focusing on food products and process development, and one of the outcomes of my BSc thesis project (cassava flour biscuit) was recognized nationally with a gold medal from the Sri Lankan Inventors Commission.

Following my graduation, I worked as a Teaching Assistant (Demonstrator) at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, which strengthened my laboratory skills by supervising bachelor’s students during experiments. I also spent six months as a Food Scientist at Aitken Spence Plantations PLC, handling the new product development process, advancing research outcomes into market-oriented food products.

This background has prepared me well for the multi-country Erasmus Mundus experience. My strong academic foundation and laboratory skills allow me to adapt quickly to different universities and research environments, while my teaching and industry experience developed the communication, teamwork, and independence needed to work with diverse peers and thrive across countries.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship?

Before applying, I had been applying for PhD positions. When I found Food4S, I realized it matched what I want to do in my life, so I studied the program carefully to make sure it fit my goals. I wanted to experience European culture, learn how to live there, and see how the universities and laboratories work before continuing to a PhD. That is why I chose a master’s first, and why I selected this exact program. I then prepared my application documents, focusing on showing how my academic background and experience connect to what the program offers.

I applied for the Erasmus Mundus scholarship through this program, since it was the one that matched my goals. I knew the selection was competitive, so I put most of my effort into my motivation letter, crafting it around my interests and how they fit the program. I think my application stood out because of my strong academic and professional background (First-Class, GPA 3.86/4.00) and a motivation letter that clearly showed that match.

What Does the FOOD4S Program Focus On?

FOOD4S focuses on building innovation and sustainability in food systems through four pillars: Science (food science and engineering technology), Sustainability (sustainable food product and process design), Safety (food safety and quality), and Simulation (computational food science and technology). The programme combines 90 ECTS of taught modules with a 30 ECTS master’s thesis, preparing graduates for careers in sustainable food production, processing, and agribusiness across industry, academia, and government.

What Are You Pursuing After the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship?

Currently, I’m in search of PhD opportunities.

How Did the Cost of Living Vary Across Countries?

Germany was the most affordable, particularly in terms of accommodation, which allowed me to save some money. Portugal was also relatively affordable, while Belgium was moderately expensive. Ireland was by far the most expensive, mainly due to the high cost of accommodation. The €1,000 monthly stipend was sufficient to manage expenses in the first three countries but not in Ireland.

Since Ireland was my final destination, where I completed my master's thesis, I used some of the savings I had accumulated in Germany and Portugal to support myself. This experience taught me the importance of budgeting and financial planning when living in different countries.

Did You Face Any Language Barriers?

The language of instruction remained English throughout the programme in all four countries, so I did not face significant language barriers academically. However, the local languages were Dutch in Belgium, German in Germany, Portuguese in Portugal, and English in Ireland. While communicating in English was generally manageable, particularly in university environments, we gradually picked up some basic Dutch, German, and Portuguese during our stays. Learning a few local expressions also helped us interact with local communities and experience the cultures better.

Would You Recommend Erasmus Mundus, and What Advice Would You Give?

I would highly recommend the Erasmus Mundus programme to anyone considering studying abroad. It is a fully funded opportunity that covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs, making it an incredible opportunity academically and financially. However, it offers much more than education. For me, it has been one of the best experiences of my life, allowing me to explore new countries, experience different cultures, build lifelong friendships, and step outside my comfort zone.

My advice would be to embrace every opportunity, be open to new experiences, and not be afraid of challenges. If you love exploring, learning, and experiencing life in different countries, this programme is definitely worth considering.

Would You Have Done Anything Differently?

Honestly, I don't think I would have done anything differently. I feel that I made the most of everything the programme had to offer, both academically and personally. I am happy with what I have achieved, including graduating with a good degree and gaining so many valuable experiences along the way. Looking back, these have been two of the most unpredictable, fascinating, and unforgettable years of my life, and I wouldn't trade that experience for anything.