UniversidaddeCádiz

The UCA receives a recognition award for its contribution to the development and consolidation of the centre’s educational work

The University of Cádiz (UCA) took part in the closing ceremony of the 50th anniversary celebrations of the Virgen de Europa Teacher Training Centre, which is affiliated to the UCA. The Rector, Casimiro Mantell, and the Vice-Rector for Degrees and Quality, Manuel Arcila, joined other institutional and academic representatives at the event, held at the Paseo de la Velada Theatre in La Línea de la Concepción.

In addition to delivering official UCA degree programmes, the centre is currently working closely with the University on the future implementation of the Master’s in Teacher Training, scheduled to begin in the next academic year.

The ceremony was also attended by the UCA delegate for the centre, Inmaculada Santiago; the Deputy Government Representative for Campo de Gibraltar, Javier Ros; the Regional Delegate for Education, José Ángel Aparicio; the Mayor of La Línea, Juan Franco; the Councillor for Education, Santos Martín; the President of the Commonwealth of Municipalities of Campo de Gibraltar, Susana Pérez; the Vice-President, Javier Vázquez; and the Bishop of Cádiz and Ceuta, Rafael Zornoza Boy.

Members of the educational community who have contributed to the centre’s growth over the past five decades also took part, including former and current teachers, students, administrative staff and representatives of the various governing bodies that have guided its evolution since its foundation.

The event included a review of the commemorative activities held throughout the past academic year. A video summarising all the initiatives organised since October 2024 was screened, and a commemorative publication was presented, highlighting the history, legacy and values of the Virgen de Europa Teacher Training Centre.

Awards were presented to individuals and institutions that have supported the centre throughout its history and contributed significantly to the development and consolidation of its educational mission — among them, the University of Cádiz, represented by Rector Casimiro Mantell, who received the award on behalf of the institution. Former directors of the centre, founders of the educational project and other figures who have been key references within the educational community over the past 50 years were also recognised.

It is worth noting that the centre, of religious origin, operates under the supervision of the Diocese of Cádiz, and counts on the collaboration of the Teresian Association, the Salesians, and the Sons of Charity, all of whom received recognition during the ceremony. The La Línea de la Concepción City Council, owner of the building where the centre is located and a long-standing partner through a cooperation agreement, was also honoured, as was the current staff.

The awards consisted of small handcrafted sculptures created by two local artists, each uniquely designed and personalised for the recipients, giving every piece a distinctive character. The event concluded with musical performances by current students of the Virgen de Europa Teacher Training Centre, following speeches by alumni and the attending authorities.