UniversidaddeCádiz

María Ángeles Minguela, Head of the Office for Social Action and Solidarity at the Vice-Rectorate for Sustainability and Culture, highlights how the Unit works to transform academic theory into real and tangible impact in the local community

Several key ideas have been repeatedly emphasized at the University in recent years. One is the importance of transferring knowledge from the classroom to society. Another is that academic training must be reflected in the personal development of students. And a third is that the university cannot overlook the well-being of its community and the society in which it is embedded. All these principles converge in the Office for Social Action and Solidarity at the University of Cádiz. Its head, María Ángeles Minguela, explains in this interview the measures implemented to move from strategic principles and intentions to everyday reality.

The Office for Social Action and Solidarity has more than two decades of experience at the University of Cádiz. How has its role evolved since its creation in 2003?

The Office for Social Action and Solidarity has more than twenty years of experience and has adapted its work to the guidelines established by each UCA governing team. Currently, under the Vice-Rectorate for Sustainability and Culture, to which the Office reports, the mission is very clear: to provide services aimed at the common good of the university community, to address and reduce internal inequalities, strengthen community cohesion, and project socially useful knowledge that directly contributes to improving our local environment in Cádiz, in line with the challenges of the 2030 Agenda.

The Unit’s mission emphasizes critical thinking and education in values. How is this reflected in the daily life of the university community?

This approach is implemented in a tangible way mainly through the UCA Volunteer Programme. Since its first edition in 2010, more than 4,000 students have taken part in the programme, where the training they receive promotes critical thinking about inequalities and education in values. The aim is to change their perspective. This commitment is formally recognised with 3 ECTS credits; in other words, it is not understood solely as an altruistic activity, but as a pedagogical tool. Undoubtedly, one of the most valuable aspects is the network created with the 57 social organisations we collaborate with. Without them, this “classroom of values” beyond textbooks would not be possible.

A clear example will take place next week, from 20 to 24 April, when our network of volunteers will be present across the four campuses wearing coloured vests with the slogan “I am a student and a volunteer—ask me why!”. This is a self-organised activity aimed at giving visibility to their volunteer experiences through information stands, leaflets, stickers and in-class talks. From the Unit, we encourage anyone who encounters them to stop and ask, as the true value of this initiative lies in those informal peer-to-peer conversations.

In addition to this initiative, what are your upcoming activities?

This weekend, from 17 to 19 April, we will hold training sessions at Las Moreras Hostel in Benaocaz for the UCA International Volunteer Programme in Morocco, which will take place in July. During these intensive sessions, students will acquire basic skills in interculturality and social intervention needed for their work with local organisations in Tangier. It is worth noting that this programme is unique within the Andalusian university system and possibly at a national level, representing a distinctive strength of the University of Cádiz.

From the Family Support Area, we also promote the UCA Intercultural Coexistence Programme in Tangier, an initiative designed to break down stereotypes on both sides of the Strait. It consists of an exchange and coexistence experience between UCA staff and their families and families from Tangier in a cultural and social context. Over the past three years, the programme has become bidirectional, with Moroccan families visiting Cádiz during the December holiday period. Looking ahead, in 2027 we will celebrate the programme’s tenth edition, marking fifteen years since its inception, with a special gathering planned in Tangier.

All these initiatives demonstrate that the University of Cádiz not only educates, but also works to ensure that its community becomes engaged citizens capable of transforming their environment through empathy and shared knowledge.

What are the Unit’s current priorities?

Our priority is to maintain and strengthen our established programmes and services. These include the UCA Volunteer Programme—considered a benchmark among Andalusian universities—the UCA School of Solidarity, and the International Volunteer Programme in Morocco. This work is complemented by the Huella Solidaria project, created in 2014 to support students in vulnerable situations and ensure that no social or economic hardship prevents them from continuing their studies.

We also prioritise work-life balance through initiatives such as the La Algaida Nursery School, as well as summer programmes like UCA Little Great Scientists Summer Camp, and the UCA School for Parents and Caregivers.

The Unit also works in family support and work-life balance. What services would you highlight?

We focus on promoting equality of opportunities and supporting families with specific needs through initiatives such as the UCA Little Great Scientists Summer Camp and financial aid for work-life balance during the summer period.

The Summer Camp programme is being repeated this year. What is your assessment of the previous edition?

We are very pleased to continue this initiative, supported by the Regional Government of Andalusia. Last year’s edition was very well received, with strong participation across all campuses. Families particularly valued the balance between learning, creativity and physical activity, as well as the safe and educational environment provided.

Another initiative is the UCA School for Parents. What does it involve?

The UCA School for Parents was created to provide practical tools to families and caregivers. Its content is designed based on real needs identified within the university community and covers different stages of children’s development. Now in its tenth edition, it has involved more than 1,500 participants and over 120 activities, maintaining a very high satisfaction rate.

How is the relationship with social organisations in the province structured?

This relationship is based on a two-way transfer process, where university knowledge is shared with society while also learning from it. Our programmes serve as channels for generating a real and tangible impact on the local community. The strength of this network lies in long-standing trust and collaboration with social organisations in Cádiz.

What role should a public university play in social commitment today?

In a context of social, economic and environmental challenges, the public university must go beyond training professionals and act as a driver of social transformation. It must guarantee equal opportunities, promote inclusion, and foster critical thinking and solidarity, enabling students to understand their capacity to contribute to society.

Looking ahead, what are the Unit’s main challenges?

Despite current challenges, the Unit remains committed to maintaining the quality of its programmes and services. Looking forward, we are working on the development of a social support service for vulnerable students, while continuing our commitment to students from conflict-affected regions.