2025-cohort
18
edits
Changes
=='''STRATEGIES TO IMPROVE I&E ECOSYSTEM (2025)'''==
==='''Strategy #1 Implementation of a University Vaccination Hub (Vacunate UCU)'''===
Vaccination is one of the most effective public health strategies, reducing morbidity and mortality, while also promoting equity in access to healthcare. Bringing vaccination to the university environment has the potential to increase adherence among young adults, one of the age groups with the lowest vaccination coverage.
'''Our challenge:'''
Many students do not get vaccinated due to barriers such as lack of time, distance from vaccination centers, misinformation, or lack of awareness. Creating an accessible, student-driven vaccination hub on campus aims to eliminate these barriers and respond to the reality shown in our survey.
'''Survey findings (baseline evidence):'''
*Out of 200 students surveyed (100 women and 100 men, all under 26 years old):
**'''73% of women''' and '''46% of men''' reported being vaccinated.
**'''21% of women''' and '''42% of men''' said they were not vaccinated.
**'''6% of women''' and '''12% of men''' answered ''“I don’t know”''.
*Main barriers identified: '''lack of time''', '''distance to vaccination centers''', and '''limited information about certain vaccines'''.
*Motivation: most students expressed that they would be more likely to get vaccinated if the service was offered on campus, due to convenience, trust in the academic environment, and minimal disruption to daily activities.
'''Activities:'''
*Design and launch a '''pilot vaccination hub''' on campus, in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health (MSP), RAP-ASSE, and UCU’s Student Wellbeing office.
*Train '''student ambassadors''' to promote vaccination among their peers, address doubts, and encourage participation.
*Develop and implement a '''communication campaign''' with posters, social media posts, and videos debunking myths and reinforcing vaccine benefits.
*Implement an '''integrated booking system''' with QR codes to simplify appointment scheduling and reduce waiting times.
*Provide '''incentives''' (discounts, food vouchers, free merchandise) to increase participation rates.
*Collect and analyze '''data from the pilot''', comparing actual participation with survey expectations and measuring impact on vaccination coverage.
*Prepare a '''final report''' with results, barriers identified, and recommendations for scale-up in future semesters.
'''How will it be financially sustained?'''
*By establishing partnerships with the MSP for vaccine provision and logistical support.
*Through university funding (Bienestar Universitario, Faculty of Health, Rector’s Office) to cover communication, materials, and logistics.
*By securing sponsorships from private companies (food, beverage, or health-related brands) that can provide incentives.
*By integrating the hub as a '''long-term health service''' within UCU, linked to the university health clinic.
==='''Strategy #2 Punta del Este "MultiCenter Space"'''===
This project aims to redesign the Punta del Este Campus to foster student participation and collaboration. The MultiCenter Space will bring together specialized academic centers, following the Montevideo model, in order to strengthen both academic and community bonds.
'''Our Challenge'''
The central challenge lies in enhancing the spatial and academic design of the Punta del Este Campus in order to foster student engagement, encourage collaborative initiatives, and strengthen bonds with the community. This approach seeks to create opportunities for students to contribute to their environment while also meeting valuable people in the process.
'''Identified Problem'''
Unlike the Montevideo campus, which is structured around specialized academic centers that provide tailored support for students’ professional training, the Punta del Este campus lacks a center-based Structure.
'''Proposed Solution'''
In coordination with the faculty administration, the establishment of a “MultiCenter Space” is currently being under evaluation. This initiative would extend the reach of existing centers: Including the Ithaka Center (Innovation), the Berit Center (Social Development), the Ágora Center (Library), and the Ignis Center (Communication) to the Punta del Este Campus.
'''Specific Relevance of the Ignis Center'''
The Montevideo campus benefits from a center-oriented structure, where each unit is designed to provide targeted academic and professional advantages aligned with specific career paths. By contrast, Punta del Este and Salto operate under more generalized frameworks.
For the field of Communication, this generalized model in Punta del Este derives in significant limitations, especially when compared to the resources and specialized training available at Ignis in Montevideo. A localized adaptation of the Ignis model would strengthen students’ professional practices by providing specialized spaces and new equipment.
'''Methodological Approach'''
The proposed strategy involves the gradual implementation of an Ignis-like Communication Center within the Punta del Este campus. This process would require the recruitment of trained personnel and the establishment of a designated workspace. Additionally other ideas that add up to the experience could:
*Developing a '''filming location guide for Punta del Este'''.
*Organizing '''audiovisual competitions''' (e.g., in the format of the “48 Hours Film Project”)
==='''Strategy #3 Implementation of the UMentors Peer Teaching Program'''===
Peer teaching is one of the most effective educational innovation strategies, enhancing academic performance while promoting equity in access to academic support. Bringing this initiative to the university environment has the potential to strengthen collaborative learning, reduce dropout, and empower scholarship students to fulfill their hours in a meaningful way.
'''Our challenge:'''
Many students struggle academically due to barriers such as lack of access to personalized support, high costs of private tutoring, or feelings of isolation when facing difficult subjects. At the same time, scholarship students often complete their required hours in activities not directly related to their studies, missing the chance to reinforce their own knowledge. UMentors was designed to eliminate these barriers by creating a student-driven support system based on solidarity, empathy, and shared academic growth.
'''Baseline evidence (survey findings and needs identified):'''
*A significant proportion of students report difficulties in key subjects such as mathematics, statistics, and introductory courses in health and business programs.
*Many expressed that accessible, peer-based academic support would increase their motivation, reduce stress, and improve their chances of passing courses.
*Scholarship students indicated that they would value an opportunity to complete their required hours in a way that strengthens their own academic skills, leadership, and communication.
*Pilot data suggest that peer teaching not only improves the performance of mentees but also enhances the tutors’ mastery and confidence.
'''Activities:'''
*Design and launch the UMentors peer teaching pilot, connecting students who need support with trained scholarship students who act as mentors.
*Train scholarship mentors in tutoring techniques, soft skills, and communication, ensuring both academic quality and a supportive environment.
*Develop and implement a communication campaign to raise awareness of the program through posters, social media, and classroom announcements.
*Create a simple online platform/database for matching mentors and mentees, keeping records of sessions, and evaluating impact.
*Provide incentives: during the pilot, each tutoring hour delivered counts as two scholarship hours (approved by the Scholarships Department).
*Collect and analyze data from the pilot, comparing actual participation and academic results with expectations, while identifying barriers and opportunities for improvement.
*Prepare a final report with results, lessons learned, and recommendations for long-term integration into university life.
'''How will it be financially sustained?'''
*By integrating UMentors into the university’s Scholarship Program, ensuring that tutoring hours are formally recognized and credited.
*Through institutional support from Bienestar Universitario, Faculties, and the Rector’s Office to cover materials, training, and communication.
*By leveraging volunteer spirit and peer solidarity, which minimize costs while maximizing impact.
*Through potential partnerships with external organizations or companies interested in supporting education initiatives and student well-being.
*By scaling the program gradually and embedding it as a permanent component of the University’s student support system.
=='''STRATEGIES TO IMPROVE I&E ECOSYSTEM (2024)'''==
'''Stakeholder meeting presentation link:'''
https://www.canva.com/design/DAGRw-sM6LU/8FrAcTGu2fyDsfWDxUNDew/edit?utm_content=DAGRw-sM6LU&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton<br />
==='''Strategy #1 Implementation of an observatory dedicated to the study of kinanthropometry'''===
kinanthropometry is the science that studies body composition and proportionality and its relationship to movement, exercise, nutrition, and health. It is key for research in health sciences.
'''Our challenge:'''
The compilation, analysis, and dissemination of anthropometric data presents a significant challenge.
'''Activities:'''
In order for students to develop the ability to measure and interpret anthropometric data. An elective module within the Minor in Physical Activity and Health Promotion. ISAK certifications. Introductory workshop during UCU Week (HUMANISTIC SENSE).
Ongoing monitoring of anthropometric variables in a targeted population.
Identifying trends and patterns.
Benchmarking data against national and international standards, detecting changes, and flagging potential public health concerns.
Producing monthly reports.
Sharing results with the scientific community and the general public.
'''How will it be financially sustained?'''
By competing for research funding from entities like ANII and ISAK. Through contracts with public and private entities (research - training) and online consulting for foreign companies. By linking with the university's health clinic.
==='''Strategy #2 Community project'''===
'''Explicative infographic link:'''
https://www.canva.com/design/DAGShYM-r6Y/AqXiokuNUQ_woTRgdM5e0Q/edit?utm_content=DAGShYM-r6Y&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton
'''Our Challenge'''
How to create a student community that goes beyond academics?
'''Our problem'''
At the UCU - Salto campus, the sense of belonging among students has decreased because many of them are pursuing semi presential courses, which has generated a disconnection with the student community and commitment to the campus.
'''Our solution'''
The proposal seeks to create interest groups where students can meet around topics such as sports, culture and the environment, promoting a sense of community.
To facilitate communication and coordination, the use of Discord is proposed, allowing students to maintain constant contact and organize activities efficiently, complementing face-to-face activities and ensuring the participation of presential and semi presential students.
'''Step by step for students'''
Students choose an interest group that appeals to them (sports, trick, culture, etc.).A Discord channel is created where group members can stay connected and coordinated.In-person activities are organized every month, using Discord to plan and stay in touch.Validation of Interests and Activities:
To guarantee that the activities are of interest to students and achieve a good turnout, the following strategies will be used:
Surveys: Students will be asked about their interests and the activities they prefer to do.
Using Discord: In Discord channels, students will be able to propose and vote on activities, ensuring that everyone participates in decision-making.
The proposal is to carry out a monthly activity for each interest group, which would result in approximately 12 activities per year. These activities would take place in the afternoons or on weekends, to facilitate everyone's participation. Discord will be key to coordinating activities and keeping the community active between events.
'''Benefits'''
A greater sense of belonging, which motivates students more.
Possible growth of a stronger student community.
It reinforces the image of UCU as a university that cares about the well-being of its students.<br />
==='''Strategy #3 Graduation Festival'''===
'''Explicative infographic link:'''
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-7hJ5jom20k
'''Our Challenge'''
How to create a graduation for over 600 students?
'''Our problem'''
In Uruguay, when people graduate from their degree, their families and friends celebrate in a particular way: making "Huevadas". The Huevadas consist on throwing ingredients such as flour, eggs, wine or even oil at the university gate or nearby. This event is a tradition in this country.
The problem this year is that, form now on, the new UCU plan enable about 600 Huevadas at the same time, due to the fact that over 600 students will be graduating the same day near the university.
'''Our solution'''
Our proposal involves creating a Graduation Festival in Parque Battle. It is an event where 'huevadas' are allowed in a controlled way, even offering food close to expiration. This idea includes setting up stands for Eco-Huevadas Kits, food trucks, a DJ and portable restrooms. The goal is to avoid uncontrolled messes, prevent wasting edible food, and create a new tradition from the university.
'''Step by step for students'''
The university staff sets up the space to welcome the students.
Families and friends wait for them at Parque Batlle, while buying the Eco-Huevada kits.
The students arrive.
The "Huevadas" take place, accompanied by music, food trucks, and a DJ.
The event ends.
The cleaning company arrives and provides their services.
'''Benefits'''
The benefit involves creating a new tradition for the university that sets it apart from others. In turn, it establishes a tradition for the coming years. Finally, the ultimate benefit is to create a more sustainable festivity.
=STRATEGIES TO IMPROVE I&E ECOSYSTEM (2023)=
Storytelling: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m1ExMJotZCY<br />
=='''Strategy #1- Proyecto Impulsar (Fostering Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Diverse Academic Fields)'''==
An initiative to promote entrepreneurship and innovation in less explored academic fields and enhance communication between students and the institution.
'''Our Challenge'''
''How can we boost I&E in academic fields that are not conventionally related with innovation and entrepreneurship?''
'''Our Problem'''
Lack of Innovation Exposure: Academic fields like Psychology, Law, Social Work, Political Science, and Visual Arts have limited exposure to innovation and entrepreneurship.
Ineffective Communication: There is a gap in communication between students and the university.
The Challenge of Flexibility: The curriculum's flexibility and the availability of elective courses make introducing mandatory innovation courses a complex task.
'''How It Works:'''
We begin by identifying faculty members who have a genuine passion for innovation and entrepreneurship in academic fields. This involves close collaboration with the Vicerrectoría de Diseño y Desarrollo Curricular (Vice-Rector's Office for Curriculum Design and Development) to leverage their insights into faculty expertise and academic areas.
Once we've identified these faculty members, we work in tandem with the Centro Ludus (Center for Teaching Innovation) to design a comprehensive training program. This program equips faculty with the necessary knowledge and teaching skills for integrating innovation and entrepreneurship into their courses effectively.
Collaborating with faculty, we strategically identify opportunities within existing courses where innovation and entrepreneurship concepts can be seamlessly integrated. This process ensures that students in fields historically less exposed to innovation benefit directly.
Our team, in collaboration with the Centro Ithaka (Ithaka Center), launches an awareness campaign. We actively engage students in the targeted fields, informing them about this initiative and the significance of innovation and entrepreneurship in their academic journey. Simultaneously, we organize events, lectures, and panels featuring accomplished professionals from related fields who have excelled as entrepreneurs.
In partnership with the Centro Ithaka, we explore collaborations with external companies. This facilitates the creation of internship opportunities, mentorship programs, and additional resources for students in the target fields, enhancing their real-world exposure to entrepreneurship.
'''We Will Follow the Incoming Steps:'''
'''#1''' Identify influential faculty members.
'''#2''' Create a training program for faculty.
'''#3''' Integrate innovation into courses.
'''#4''' Promote awareness.
'''#5''' Evaluate and monitor.
'''#6''' Integrate into the curriculum.
'''#7''' Establish strategic partnerships.
'''#8''' Assess long-term impact.
'''<br />'''
=='''Strategy #2- USA (Unidad de Sinergia y Armonía) - (Make different university centers work together in synergy)'''==
The Unit of Synergy and Harmony (USA) works to align the different units of the university that have proposals for students, finding opportunities to collaborate and generate more valuable and comprehensive proposals. This unit understands the different priorities of each unit and is responsible for the necessary logistics to facilitate collaboration. It is composed of a student from the Student Center (ComuniUCU) and a team from UCU.
'''Why are we suggesting this?'''
'''Our challenge:'''
''How can we harmonize UCU's offerings to better address student and faculty needs while fostering active engagement?''
'''Students Pain Points:'''
- We have sooo many choices to make: Elective courses (the list has 327 rows in Excel), clubs, sports, exchange programs, volunteering, pastoral activities, innovation initiatives, language courses...
- We're already involved in activities outside of the university, so we don't have much extra time.
- We all have diverse interests, but we need to manage our credits effectively to make the most of these opportunities.
'''Faculty Pain Points'''
- They need to consider many different, original, engaging, and interesting proposals.
- They're not really connecting as a UCU team; instead, they seem to be "competing" for attention.
- The students aren't putting in their effort, lacking initiative, and remaining passive in their roles.
'''The value in our solution:'''
'''Student Value:'''
- Fewer options, but more comprehensive ones.
- Different interests blended into a single proposal.
- Connection with people with different interests
'''Faculty Value:'''
- Quality and teamwork are more important than quantity and individual efforts.
- Innovative proposals with distinctive features set above the average.
- Having more students involved means greater promotion of the proposal, all in alignment with UCU's values.
=='''Strategy #3- UCULink - (AI software that filters the way students receive information in a personalized way)'''==
UCULink is a software application that uses artificial intelligence to create personalized messages for students based on their interests. It can forge unique interactions with students and collect invaluable data from these exchanges. With each interaction, the software becomes more adept at crafting compelling messages and understanding the students on a deeper level.
'''Our challenge:'''
''How can we boost student engagement in UCU activities through personalized and impactful communication?''
'''Our problem:'''
'''Numerous Activities, Limited Engagement:''' UCU offers a plethora of activities, yet student participation remains low. We aim to boost this engagement.
'''Suboptimal Communication Channels:''' Through our research and interviews with students, we found that emails and the UCU portals are not the most effective means of communication.
'''Generic Messaging:''' When a student does read an email, the content often lacks personal relevance, reducing its impact.
'''Inefficient Tracking Mechanisms:''' Currently, UCU struggles to track student participation accurately, especially when it comes to understanding their reasons for non-participation.
'''<br />How it works:'''
1) Students indicate their interests in the UCU portal.
2) Our AI app tailors messages based on these interests.
3) The app communicates via WhatsApp or other preferred channels.
4) These messages can encompass any information or updates the university wishes to relay.
5) Upon receiving the message, students can learn about the activity or update and have the option to respond.
6) Interaction metrics are recorded, enabling the AI app to learn and refine its message suggestions and activity proposals for students.
'''<span id="docs-internal-guid-e6c7afc4-7fff-53af-9634-bf6cfaa3a387"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We will follow the incoming steps:</span></span>'''
'''#1''' Ensure all students register their personal interests in the UCU Portal.
'''#2''' Develop an algorithm that sends event invitations based on individual student interests.
'''#3''' Collect data on student event attendance.
'''#4''' Over time, the algorithm can then forecast which events a particular student is likely to attend.
<br />
=='''Strategy #14- Break the LimitsComuniUCU - (1-semester activities with students from careers that are not usually associated with I&E Rebrand the way UCU communicates and builds community)'''==
ComuniUCU is a student goverment designed for students, by students. This goverment goal is to transform the way our university build community and generate an environment were students are are involved in decision-making processes, while creating a more connected and engaged student community.<br /> '''Our challenge:''' ''How can we foster a more engaged community of UCU students while also creating new communication channels?'' '''Our problem:''' '''Lack of Student Community:''' UCU has a huge student community, yet it lacks unity. Students attend the university but do not feel connected to it. '''Poor Communication, Low Engagement:''' After conducting our research we found that due to the inneficient communication channel for activities from the university, students do not enroll in extracurriculars. '''Small Student Culture:''' Presently, UCU's student activities are created and not well comunicated, generating an apathetic community, increasing reluctance in activities and pivotal student roles. '''How it works (Elegibility, Process):''' 1) Interested students fill a form, launching their campaign. 2) Members must be comprised from various faculties and degrees. 3) Create student bylaws for student representatives. 4) Ensure regular meetings and recieve feedback from student community. 5) Design & create community building activities and committies. 6) Create a platform in which alumni is involved in decision-making. 7) Establish a communication bridge between students & representatives with university authorities. '''<span id="docs-internal-guid-e6c7afc4-7fff-53af-9634-bf6cfaa3a387"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We will follow the incoming steps:</span></span>'''
<br />