The project, “Implementation of a Community Mental Health Guidance Model to Promote Academic Retention Among Undergraduate Students” successfully completed its second consecutive year of implementation at the regional campuses of the Industrial University of Santander (UIS) during the first academic semester of 2026.
The initiative aims to provide comprehensive mental health support, guidance, and continuous assistance throughout students’ academic journey. Its implementation across the UIS regional campuses demonstrates the university’s commitment to building more inclusive, sustainable educational environments focused on the holistic well-being of its student community.
The project is financially supported through a partnership between UIS, Colombia’s Ministry of National Education (MEN), and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). It was selected at the national level for its potential impact as part of the Program to Improve Access to Graduation in Higher Education, which seeks to strengthen student retention policies and initiatives at public universities across Colombia.
Supporting Students Across the Region
Thanks to strategic action plans developed by the professional team, group activities and individual counseling sessions were carried out at the UIS regional campuses in Barbosa, Barrancabermeja, Málaga, and Socorro, engaging a total of 4,872 participants. This figure highlights the program’s significant impact and the successful achievement of its objectives.
A multidisciplinary team of eight professionals—including psychologists, psychiatrists, and social workers—served the regional campuses, while five additional professionals from the core team continued supporting students at the Main Campus. “The results achieved reflect the commitment, professionalism, and human-centered approach of both the core team and the regional campus staff, who supported the university community through counseling, guidance, and emotional well-being initiatives.
These efforts generated strong student participation. Therefore, during the second academic semester of 2026, we will continue promoting initiatives that contribute to a healthier, more supportive, and more resilient academic community,” said Ángela María Mateus Acosta, Director of the UIS Listening Center.
Through the implementation of this partnership, the UIS Listening Center and the university continue strengthening their national leadership in programs focused on student well-being, mental health, student retention, and equity in higher education. Its impact contributes to creating healthier, more sustainable, and more inclusive academic environments.
