In its most recent session, the Board of Trustees of the Industrial University of Santander (UIS) addressed strategic issues for the institution’s future, including the consolidation of the academic offerings of the Institute of Languages, the projection of the Vice-Rectory for Research and Outreach (VIE), and the appointment of Professor Sandra Judith García as the representative of the academic authorities before this body.
One of the main topics was the presentation of the UIS Institute of Languages, whose modern infrastructure and academic projection create the possibility of expanding services both nationally and internationally. The Governor of Santander and President of the Board of Trustees, Juvenal Díaz Mateus, highlighted the investment of more than 25 billion pesos from UIS, the Governor’s Office, and the National Government, and called for taking full advantage of the capacities of this new space.
“UIS is about to inaugurate one of the most modern language institutes in the country. I proposed to the trustees that we should offer Spanish courses so that foreigners can come to our country to learn this language at the UIS Institute of Languages. We also expressed our interest in creating virtual English preparation programs to benefit students from public schools in Santander, in partnership with the Governor’s Office, so that when they graduate, they have an advanced level of English. With this institute, we can strengthen bilingualism in Santander and open ourselves to the world,” stated the Governor.
The Board also received a detailed report from the Vice-Rectory for Research and Outreach, which highlighted progress in resource investment, the strengthening of research seedbeds, research with a territorial focus, and the consolidation of the intellectual property portfolio.
“Our vision is to connect more with the productive sector and with society, strengthening research seedbeds and student and faculty entrepreneurship. We want the results in science, technology, and innovation to translate into real solutions for the region and the country,” said Cristian Blanco, vice-Rector for Research and Outreach.
For his part, Mario Betancurt, Alumni Representative to the Board of Trustees, stated that “research and outreach are fundamental pillars of the university. We fully support this strategy, which must continue to be strengthened to benefit Santander and the country.”
In the same session, Professor Sandra Judith García took office as the representative of the academic authorities before the UIS Board of Trustees.
“It is a great responsibility to continue working for the university. Our commitment as professors is to inspire students to develop their potential and contribute to the country’s growth. The university must train professionals who are convinced that we can solve the challenges of our region and nation. That is why I responsibly accept the vote of confidence of the trustees,” expressed García upon taking office.
Through these discussions, UIS reaffirms its commitment to internationalization, bilingualism, research, and the strengthening of its role as a driver of transformation for Santander and Colombia.
