The university held a formal ceremony in our branch campus in Cuenca to celebrate its 30th anniversary; students, professors, officials and special guests attended. 

Universidad Politecnica Salesiana (UPS) was founded in 1994; it has experienced notable growth in its academic programs and infrastructure nationwide, it has become a benchmark for innovation and digital transformation in Ecuadorian higher education. 

 
Today, UPS has about 100 academic programs present in undergraduate, postgraduate, doctorate and online programs, as well as technology courses. This growth has not only increased the number of students, but has also strengthened its presence in several international rankings, making it one of the best universities in the country.

The ceremony began with a welcoming speech from UPS president Juan Cárdenas Tapia, "the mission of UPS has always been clear: to educate comprehensive, scientific, practical, human, moral and ethical professionals. The university has understood that education goes beyond the mere transmission of knowledge; it is a tool for social transformation. Therefore, it has focused on combining science and technology to help solve the country's major social problems, promoting research and innovation as fundamental pillars of its educational goals."

He also stated, "Today, we celebrate all our accomplishments, we praise the work of everyone who has participated in this dream, thanks to you all, a promising future awaits us. In line with the words of Pope Francis, we remember the past with gratitude, we look at the present with passion and we always assume the future with hope. Look at those around you and next to you, show gratitude, because we are all UPS and together we transform lives."

 
There was a special tribute for the founders of the university, who had great vision and their effort laid the foundations of an institution that has known how to adapt to technological and social changes. Professors and administrative staff who have been part of the university community since its beginnings were also acknowledged. UPS has made significant investments in infrastructure, the expansion of its branch campuses in Cuenca, Quito and Guayaquil include the construction of modern buildings, laboratories equipped with cutting-edge technology and spaces that promote the integration of the academic community.

 
Innovation has not been limited to academia. UPS has carried out many research and engagement projects with society, in cooperation with national and international institutions. These projects have not only contributed to the scientific and technological development of the country, but have also created solutions to global problems, which strengthens the university's commitment to social development.

 
One of the most notable moments was the presentation of a video showing the most important milestones of these three decades, from its beginnings, the growth of academic programs, research, innovation, Salesian communities in Ecuador, the implementation of technologies for inclusion and strategic agreements with other national and international institutions.

 
Father Marcelo Farfán and Father Juan Cárdenas unveiled a commemorative plaque in honor of the university’s 30th anniversary, highlighting the importance of this event and the achievements throughout these three decades of commitment to Salesian education.

The university is committed to academic excellence and the comprehensive development of its members, this has had a positive impact throughout time. UPS promotes values such as solidarity, responsibility and collaborative work. With a clear vision of the future, the university continues its mission of educating leaders capable of transforming society and contributing to the common well-being.