Following the successful implementation of the University for Seniors program last year, both institutions will intensify their cooperation. The rector of UAL, José J. Céspedes, and the mayor, Francisco Góngora, signed the agreement at the town hall, attended by the Vice-Rector for Postgraduate Studies, Fernando Carvajal, and the Councilor for Education, Javier Rodríguez. The aim is to foster ongoing collaboration beneficial to society as a whole.
Mayor Góngora highlighted that this agreement designates El Ejido as an official provincial hub for the UAL, enabling collaboration for continuous university education, cultural activities, and scientific dissemination, including expert courses and master's degrees. He emphasized that this milestone complements the well-received University for Seniors, summer courses, and ongoing joint research, reinforcing established ties and recognizing education as a fundamental pillar for local progress.
Rector Céspedes, in turn, stressed the importance of strengthening ties with El Ejido, one of the province's most significant municipalities. He noted that a key UAL strategy is to position itself as a university for the entire province, acting as a driver of territorial development through knowledge generation and transfer.
While specific future actions under this protocol are yet to be detailed, plans include the launch of micro-credentials and research and transfer projects. Each initiative will have a dedicated collaboration agreement outlining objectives, resources, and party obligations. Activities will generally take place in municipal spaces provided by the City Council. The local branch of the University for Seniors will commence its second academic year this autumn, following a successful first year with nearly 40 students and three training pathways.
