The Industrial University of Santander (UIS), through its Mental Health Committee, has adopted Resolution 347 issued by the Ministry of Health and Social Protection for the implementation of the “Golden Code,” a protocol that enables the early detection, immediate care, and follow-up of individuals exhibiting suicidal behavior within the university community.
Through a collaborative and interdisciplinary effort, professionals from Student Welfare Services, the Human Talent Management Division, the Listening Center, the Academic Excellence System, and UISALUD met to establish guidelines for the early identification, assessment, intervention, referral, and follow-up of UIS students experiencing suicidal ideation or suicide attempts. This initiative is based on a primary mental health care approach, human rights principles, and comprehensive risk management.
This action responds to a request from the Government of Santander directed at institutions throughout the country, with the aim of guaranteeing the right to mental health in Colombia.
“The Mental Health Policy Committee has been working over the past two months with professionals and student advisors from various academic and administrative units to incorporate the ‘Golden Code,’ removing barriers so that young people, faculty members, and administrative staff experiencing mental health challenges or suicidal thoughts can receive rapid and timely care,” said Jorge Andrés Niño García, Associate Professor at the UIS School of Medicine.
What is the “Golden Code”?
The Golden Code is Colombia’s national protocol for providing immediate, humane, and barrier-free care in response to suicidal behavior or suicide attempts. It requires all healthcare entities (EPS and IPS) to classify suicide risk as a high-priority triage category or as an immediate priority for both physical and mental stabilization.
Through Resolution 347 of 2026, the Ministry of Health established the Golden Code, a new protocol that enables immediate action when a person is at risk of suicide. Its measures include strengthening infrastructure and transportation, consolidating a network of professionals, and promoting the guidance and research needed to transform the culture surrounding mental health.
