Algeciras Senior University Programme Celebrates the Graduation of 33 Students After Five Years of Learning 9 June 2026
The ceremony brought together students, lecturers and institutional representatives in an event highlighting lifelong learning and active participation in university life.
The University of Cádiz’s Senior University Programme (Aula Universitaria de Mayores) at the Bahía de Algeciras Campus celebrated the graduation of 33 fifth-year students who successfully completed their educational journey after five years of learning, personal development and active engagement in university life. The ceremony, held last Friday, brought together students, academic staff, family members and institutional representatives in a moving and celebratory event.
The ceremony was presided over by Vice-Rector for the Bahía de Algeciras Campus Mariluz Martín; the Andalusian Regional Government’s Deputy Representative for the Campo de Gibraltar area, Javier Ros; the Director of the University of Cádiz Senior University Programme, María Jesús Paredes; the Programme’s Deputy Director at the Bahía de Algeciras Campus, Carlos Camacho; and José Juan Iborra, who served as patron of the graduating class.
The event began with the academic procession of graduates and authorities through the central aisle, accompanied by a musical performance featuring Juan Luis Reyes on keyboard, Juan Díaz on cello, Pilar López on violin and vocalist Paula Herrera. Following the formal opening of the ceremony, graduates received their academic sashes and diplomas marking the completion of this stage of their university education.
Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, Ana María Valencia, who spent much of her professional career as a literature teacher, delivered an address interspersed with musical performances. José Juan Iborra, patron of the graduating class and lecturer within the Senior University Programme, reflected on his experience of joining the programme as a lecturer after retirement and highlighted the satisfaction of teaching students with a genuine passion for learning. He concluded his speech by reading a poem dedicated to the graduates.
Victoria Guerrero, President of the Julia Traducta Student Association, also addressed the audience, expressing gratitude to the University of Cádiz, fellow students and all those who regularly support the association’s activities. During her speech, she announced resolutions approved by the association’s executive board recognising the collaboration of Roberto Godino and awarding Ángel Sáez honorary membership status.
In the final part of the ceremony, speeches were delivered by the Deputy Representative of the Andalusian Regional Government in Campo de Gibraltar, the Director of the Senior University Programme and the Programme’s Deputy Director at the Bahía de Algeciras Campus. The event concluded with remarks from Vice-Rector Mariluz Martín, who congratulated the graduates on the dedication, perseverance and commitment they had demonstrated throughout their studies.
The University of Cádiz Senior University Programme is attached to the Vice-Rectorate for Students and aims to promote the social, cultural and academic integration of people aged 55 and over. No previous academic qualifications are required for admission.
The programme is structured around a five-year curriculum complemented by a wide range of cultural and educational activities. During the 2025–2026 academic year, the Senior University Programme enrolled 884 students across its campuses in Cádiz, Jerez and Algeciras, consolidating its position as one of the University of Cádiz’s most successful and participatory lifelong learning initiatives.