Balance and achievements of the Girardot branch

By: Alejandro García Suárez – Advisory Office of Communications

In an interview with the UCundinamarca News Agency, Miguel Ángel Ávila Díaz, Administrative Director of the Girardot branch, highlighted the achievements made during 2024, emphasizing significant progress in the academic and administrative fields, and the commitment of the Knowledge and Learning Managers and the administrative staff to strengthen educational quality.

News Agency (AN): In your role as administrative director, what is the overall assessment of the management during the year 2024?

Miguel Ángel Ávila Díaz (MAAD): The Girardot branch has faced significant challenges that have led us to establish ourselves as key players in the department. A notable achievement is the inter-administrative agreement with the Cundinamarca Governor's Office, specifically with the Department of the Environment, to strengthen water governance and train watershed council members. This effort, in collaboration with the Environmental Engineering program, is a step toward program accreditation.

We have also supported the submission of initial requirements for the accreditation of the Business Administration and Nursing programs. This work goes hand in hand with the modernization of our infrastructure, aligned with Rector Adriano Muñoz's goal of achieving high-quality accreditation for the branch campus.

AN: What do you consider to be the main academic achievements obtained in 2024?

MAAD: One of the most important milestones is the launch of the Software Engineering program in Girardot, which has been very well received in the Upper Magdalena region. This program reflects our commitment to responding to local and national technological needs. In addition, accreditation processes have been strengthened in other academic programs, driven by the institutional development plan. This year, thanks to funding from the stamp tax, we launched our ninth research call for proposals, resulting in the submission of nine projects. These initiatives not only strengthen research and academic groups but also generate a positive impact on the community by addressing local issues through knowledge transfer.

AN: From an administrative perspective, what advances or outstanding achievements were made during the year 2024?

MAAD: I want to highlight the collaborative efforts with the mayor's office and the transfer of stamp taxes, which have enabled the execution of important projects. This includes the modernization of the infrastructure, such as the acquisition of air conditioners, the remodeling of the facade and entrance, and the improvement of the playing field.

Another noteworthy project is the management of a property to implement an educational energy community, in collaboration with the Special Assets Society. This project aims to generate clean energy, reduce environmental impact, and serve as an academic space for students. Furthermore, we are exploring the expansion of the branch campus, a challenge that, while ambitious, we are confident we can achieve with the support of the relevant institutions.

AN: In addition to what has been mentioned, what other relevant aspects marked this 2024 period?

MAAD: We are currently undergoing a recertification process under ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards, strengthening our Transmodern Digital Educational Model (MEDIT). This effort reflects the commitment of the entire educational community to excellence and sustainability. I thank each member of our branch for their participation in these processes, which will be fundamental to achieving new certifications and continuing to build a high-quality university.

With these actions, the Girardot branch reaffirms its commitment to the academic, social and environmental development of the region, marking a path of growth and transformation for the coming years.

Listen to our Podcast:

More news from the Girardot branch at the News Agency