The Colombian Association of Universities proposes to the next government a structural reform of the post-secondary education system to respond to demographic, technological and territorial changes.
Oscar Domínguez González, executive director of Ascun, noted that the current system is fragmented between secondary, technical, technological, university education and SENA training, with weak connections between levels.
The proposal seeks flexible pathways with recognition of prior learning, competency certification and micro-credentials for young people, workers and older adults.
Ascun also calls for a national comprehensive well-being policy to address student retention, include mental health and support for working students and caregivers.
The director stressed the need to increase public resources for state universities and close territorial gaps in regions such as the Amazon and Orinoquia.