Universidad Andrés Bello Celebrates 20 Years of the Diploma in Employment Skills, a Pioneer in Inclusive Higher Education in Chile

Universidad Andrés Bello (UNAB) celebrated the 20th anniversary of its Diploma in Employment Skills (ProDhL), a pioneering initiative launched in 2006 to provide an alternative higher education option for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The ceremony brought together university leaders, graduates, families, faculty members, and representatives from partner organizations to recognize the program’s impact on inclusion, holistic education, and access to employment opportunities.

The Diploma in Employment Skills equips students with socioemotional skills, technical competencies, and workplace preparation, and over the past two decades has become a national and international benchmark for inclusive higher education.

Erika Castillo, Dean of the School of Education and Humanities at Universidad Andrés Bello, highlighted the program’s human and academic impact on the university community.

“The program has been, and continues to be, an experience that marks a turning point in the lives of its students. For the faculty and academic team involved in the program, it is an essential part of our work. The level of commitment, professionalism, and support that exists within the program is truly remarkable.

The program stands as a unique example of responsibility, rigor, and long-term commitment, allowing us to recognize the many dimensions of talent, ability, and intelligence. Our students undoubtedly learn through this experience, but as an institution, we learn just as profoundly,” she added.

Juan Antonio Guzmán, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Universidad Andrés Bello, emphasized the international recognition the program has achieved.

“This is the only program for which I have received inquiries from abroad about the possibility of admitting students. It is recognized not only in Chile, but also internationally, and that speaks to the extraordinary work carried out by the program’s leaders and teams.”

Nicolás Bronfman, Vice Provost of UNAB, highlighted the innovative nature of the program when it was created two decades ago.

“When the program began, discussions about inclusion in universities and in Chile were still in their early stages. Creating this program required the courage to innovate in education, challenge traditional models, and embrace the idea that diversity is not an exception to be managed, but a reality to be integrated, valued, and embraced.”

María Florencia Iriarte, National Director of the Diploma in Employment Skills (ProDhL), emphasized the program’s growth and consolidation over the past 20 years, as well as the challenges that remain.

“These 20 years reflect the commitment of many people who believed that inclusion should be a reality within higher education. Today, we see graduates successfully employed, proud families, and a transformed university community. Our challenge is to continue growing, expand opportunities, and keep breaking down barriers so that more young people can access an inclusive and transformative university experience.”

Personal Stories and Transformative Experiences

During the ceremony, graduates, faculty members, and families shared testimonials about the impact the program has had on their lives and personal journeys during the panel discussion “Twenty Years of the Journey: Experiences That Build Inclusion.” The conversation provided an opportunity to reflect on the program’s history, share transformative experiences, and discuss the challenges that remain in advancing inclusion in higher education and the workforce.

Julia Ansoleaga, who has worked at a childcare center for the past 18 years after graduating from the program in early childhood education support, reflected on what it meant to join the program’s first cohort.

“On July 6, I will celebrate 18 years working at a childcare center, caring for the youngest babies. The program taught me everything I know and made it possible for me to work. It was one of the best things that ever happened to me.”

From the business sector, Álvaro Canales, Head of Digital Platforms at Grupo Copesa, spoke about the lessons his organization has learned through workplace inclusion.

“It is always challenging to face something new, but we have all learned a great deal from this experience. I have been with the company for six years, and my colleague from the program has been working with us for ten. Every day brings a new opportunity to learn.”

Jaime Arellano, a faculty member in the program’s music area, described how the experience transformed his approach to teaching.

“I came from a traditional teaching background, but joining the program required a shift in mindset and continuous growth, because you have to explore every possible way to help students learn.”

Paola Durney, sister and family representative of one of the program’s graduates, also shared her experience and pride in being part of the initiative.

“Having the opportunity to be part of the program was one of the best things that happened to Christian. We have always felt deeply proud to have participated and to be able to say that this opportunity for inclusive higher education existed in Chile.”

Recognition of Families, Companies, and Longtime Supporters

The event also included special recognition for families whose support and vision were instrumental in the creation of the program 20 years ago.

Among those honored were the Fontanet Latuf family, represented by Tatiana Latuf and Nicole Fontanet, a member of the program’s first cohort. The Saieh Guzmán family was also recognized, represented by Ana Guzmán and Consuelo Saieh, who graduated from the program in 2014.

The university also recognized the first internship sites and employers that supported the initiative from its earliest days and continue to support graduates’ entry into the workforce, including Salcobrand, La Punta, Clínica Veterinaria Grönemann, and Sala Cuna Pehuenche.

UNAB also highlighted the support of Santander, which has provided scholarships since 2017 that have helped expand the program’s reach, particularly at the Viña del Mar and Concepción campuses.

One of the most meaningful moments of the event was the recognition of María Teresa von Furstenberg, former National Director of the program, who laid the foundation for its development. She currently holds the title of Honorary Professor at Universidad Andrés Bello in recognition of her distinguished career in inclusion and her contributions to advancing knowledge in the field.