National University of Asuncion

National University of Asuncion Overview

The Universidad Nacional de Asunción (UNA) stands as the oldest state institution for tertiary education in the Republic of Paraguay, boasting the largest student and academic population. Its distinguished alumni have significantly contributed to the nation's social, political, artistic, cultural, and scientific realms.

The institution's distinctive Latin motto, "Vitam impendere vero," translates to "dedicating life to the pursuit of truth."

Among the Paraguayan public universities, UNA has the highest number of programs, students, and faculty, despite receiving comparatively lesser funding from the government.

Courses are primarily conducted in Spanish, with exceptions at the Instituto Superior de Lenguas (ISL), which offers the world's sole Bachelor's in Guaraní Language, and the programs for English, French, German, and Portuguese. In these cases, classes are taught in the language of the respective field of study.

Currently, UNA boasts a student body of over 45,000 and a faculty of 9,000 across 78 diverse disciplines.

Historical Background Founded on September 24, 1889, the Universidad Nacional de Asunción emerged after numerous colonial-era attempts, only 19 years following the conclusion of the devastating War of the Triple Alliance. The institution was established through the efforts of José Segundo Decoud Domecq, during the presidency of Patricio Escobar.

The university's establishment was authorized by the national congress, overcoming a presidential veto. This led to the creation of three faculties: Law and Social Sciences, Medicine, and Mathematics. Ramón Zubizarreta became its first rector, leading until April 30, 1891. An existing School of Law had been functioning since 1882, and though the Faculty of Mathematics was proposed, it was not realized.

In 1893, the School of Notaries and Public Writers was founded and affiliated with the Faculty of Law. The School of Surveying commenced in 1921. The Free School of Economics and Politics emerged in 1932. The School of Dentistry gained Faculty status in 1947, while the School of Humanities evolved into the Faculty of Philosophy in 1948. The Faculty of Architecture was established in 1957.

UNA stood as Paraguay's sole university until 1960, when the Universidad Católica "Nuestra Señora de la Asunción" was founded.

Following Alfredo Stroessner's fall on February 3, 1989, the student movement faced disarray, with certain organizations ceasing operation. The FEUNA (Federación de Estudiantes de la UNA) was eventually reconstituted in 1996, unifying university students across faculties to champion student rights and counteract budget cuts from national governments. Constitutional changes in 1992 facilitated internal elections for a rector, no longer appointed by presidential decree since 1999.

In subsequent years, new faculties, programs, and accreditations expanded UNA's offerings, reflecting its ongoing evolution.

Composition of the University With over sixty undergraduate programs across twelve faculties, institutes, and research centers, Universidad Nacional de Asunción (UNA) embraces its role as Paraguay's flagship institution for tertiary education. The faculties cover a spectrum of fields, catering to the diverse academic pursuits of over 45,000 students and supported by a faculty of 9,000. These faculties include:

• Faculty of Law
• Faculty of Medicine
• Faculty of Engineering
• Faculty of Economics
• Faculty of Dentistry
• Faculty of Chemical Sciences
• Faculty of Philosophy
• Faculty of Agricultural Sciences
• Faculty of Veterinary Sciences
• Faculty of Architecture, Design, and Art
• Faculty of Polytechnic Sciences
• Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences
• Faculty of Nursing and Obstetrics
• Faculty of Social Sciences

The university extends its reach through regional branches, complementing its central campuses in Asunción. These regional branches offer select programs and engage with local communities.

UNA's commitment to extension activities facilitates a direct connection between students, faculty, and the surrounding community. Collaborations with governmental bodies, municipalities, and enterprises foster practical engagement, ensuring the university's role as a dynamic force for social development.

Supporting research initiatives, UNA offers resources such as a central library, information access centers, and specialized facilities like the Astronomical Observatory and the Division of Meteorology. Furthermore, the institution has established an entrepreneurial program, the Universidad Nacional de Asunción Business Incubator (INCUNA), to foster innovation and support budding entrepreneurs.

System of Governance and Authorities Operating autonomously within the framework of the Paraguayan constitution and education laws, UNA abides by its own university statute. The primary governing bodies include:

• University Assembly: The highest deliberative body responsible for defining university policies, amending the statute, electing the Rector and Vice Rector, and endorsing financial accounts.
• University Council (CSU): Responsible for the university's governance, the CSU adheres to the policies set by the Assembly and the statute. It comprises the Rector, Vice Rector, elected representatives from faculty members, graduates, non-teaching staff, and students.

UNA's faculties host associations of professors, staff unions, and independent student centers. The Federation of Students (FEUNA) and the Council of Student Representatives (CREUNA) further engage students in university affairs.

Distinguished Alumni Throughout its illustrious history, Universidad Nacional de Asunción has produced notable graduates who have made a significant impact across various domains. Among these remarkable individuals are former President of Paraguay, Eusebio Ayala; esteemed botanist, Fátima Mereles; distinguished linguist, anthropologist, and educator, David Galeano; accomplished writer, Gabriel Casaccia; and distinguished scientist and educator, Benjamín Barán.

As a venerated institution, National University of Asuncion continues to uphold its legacy of academic excellence, innovation, and societal contribution.