On 8 October, the University of Andorra (UdA) began the 2024–2025 academic year with an event in the auditorium of Andorra la Vella Conference Centre, led by the episcopal co-prince of Andorra, Joan-Enric Vives, along with the head of the Andorran government, Xavier Espot, and the university rector, Juli Minoves. The inaugural lecture was given by Andorran scientist Magda Marquet, a doctor of biochemical engineering and founder of the Althea Technologies laboratories in California, who was presented with the Medal of the University of Andorra. Under the title ‘The Evolution of Biotechnology: Past, Present and Future’, Marquet highlighted this science’s potential for combatting climate change and repairing genetic diseases, among other major challenges.

During the ceremony, the rector declared the number of students undergoing official studies enrolled this year at UdA, which consolidates the growth seen in recent years. To be precise, the year has begun with 682 students working towards an advanced professional diploma, a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree or a doctorate. This figure is slightly higher than last year, when 675 students were enrolled. Minoves also spoke positively about the ongoing expansion of the university campus and referred to the need to create a residence for students and faculty in the near future. Furthermore, he announced the launch of a collaboration with Université Toulouse Capitole, in order to offer studies in the sphere of European institutions, and the possible creation of an institute of health-related studies, which would focus on issues of prevention and longevity. The head of the government, meanwhile, highlighted UdA’s role in the strategy for generating the necessary stimuli for more research and development businesses to set up in Andorra. Finally, the co-prince underlined the social invigoration role UdA plays by making the Principality of Andorra a leader in higher education, as well as declaring the official start of the 2024–2025 academic year.

The opening event ended with the graduation of 113 graduates who completed their advanced professional diploma, bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or doctorate during the 2023–2024 year, as part of the University of Andorra’s 34th graduating class, the largest to date. The graduates received their diplomas from the Andorran Minister of Institutional Relations, Education and Universities, Ladislau Baró, who was accompanied by the Health Minister, Helena Mas, and the rector of the University of Andorra.

During the event, a summary of activities was also presented, including UdA’s main achievements from the 2023–2024 year. Last year, counting both the 675 students undergoing official studies and the 1,140 lifelong learning students, the total number of students was 1,815.

Date: 10 October 2024