National Polytechnic School

National Polytechnic School Overview

The Escuela Politécnica Nacional (EPN), also known as EPN, is a prestigious public university located in Quito, Ecuador. Renowned for its excellence in research and education in the fields of basic sciences, engineering, and technology, EPN offers a wide range of doctoral, master's, and undergraduate programs.

Founded by President Gabriel García Moreno on August 27, 1869, initially under a different name, EPN was established with the vision of becoming a center of research and professional training in high-level engineering and sciences. The institution's foundation marked the beginning of a legacy dedicated to advancing knowledge and expertise in various scientific disciplines. However, due to internal conflicts among religious authorities and political reasons, EPN faced closure on September 15, 1876. Yet, its legacy persisted as several professors, such as Luigi Sodiro, continued their educational work at the University of Ecuador.

Reopening its doors on February 28, 1935, under President Velasco Ibarra, EPN embarked on a new phase of academic growth, emphasizing studies in Mathematics, Cosmography, Physics, Applied Chemistry, Electrotechnics, Mining Engineering, and Geology. With a decree issued by President Velasco Ibarra on June 4, 1946, the institution's name was officially changed to Escuela Politécnica Nacional, marking a significant milestone in its enduring journey.

Today, EPN stands as a testament to the dedication of its faculty, students, and administrators, consistently upholding a culture of research and academic excellence. The university's commitment to innovation and knowledge dissemination extends beyond its core programs into specialized centers of research and development.

EPN's main campus, known as the Campus José Rubén Orellana, is situated in the central-eastern part of Quito. Spanning an impressive area of 152,000 square meters, the campus boasts a built-up area of around 62,000 square meters. With a student population of approximately 10,000, EPN offers a diverse and dynamic academic environment. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including multiple specialized libraries catering to engineering and scientific disciplines.

One notable highlight of EPN is the prestigious Observatorio Astronómico de Quito (OAQ), one of the oldest astronomical observatories in South America. Established in 1873, OAQ is a vital component of EPN's academic landscape, contributing to cutting-edge research and education in the field of astronomy.

The institution's commitment to research excellence is reflected in its active engagement in various scientific domains. EPN's Institute of Geophysics, for instance, plays a pivotal role in monitoring seismic and volcanic activities in Ecuador, particularly given the country's location in the Pacific Ring of Fire. The Institute's contributions are invaluable in enhancing disaster preparedness and mitigating potential risks.

Furthermore, EPN collaborates with other Ecuadorian universities through its participation in the Red Ecuatoriana de Universidades para Investigación y Postgrados (Ecuadorian Network of Universities for Research and Postgraduate Studies). This collaborative effort emphasizes the importance of knowledge sharing and interdisciplinary research in advancing the nation's scientific and technological progress.

In summary, the Escuela Politécnica Nacional stands as a beacon of academic excellence and innovation in Ecuador. With a rich history spanning over a century, the university continues to uphold its legacy of research, education, and contributions to various scientific disciplines, positioning itself as a leader in higher education within the country and beyond.