On March 3, Carmelo García was elected rector of the University of Alcalá de Henares (UAH) with 57.65% of the weighted vote. His mandate will focus on key aspects such as housing, mental health, Artificial Intelligence, and the territorial expansion of the institution.
One of the main priorities is the construction of residences for students and young faculty, aiming to address the housing access problem affecting the university community. The UAH has land on its external campus that could be used for this purpose, and the rector will explore collaboration avenues with the Comunidad de Madrid, the Ministry of Universities, the Ministry of Housing, and support from the ICO.
This year will also see the launch of an emotional well-being and mental health plan, aimed at both students and staff. This program will include listening points, prevention systems, and activities promoting sports, leisure, mindfulness, and support for situations of particular vulnerability.
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into teaching is another major objective. Specific AI degrees will be promoted, and this technology will be incorporated into the curricula of most degrees, always with a focus on responsible use and prevention of plagiarism.
“"We want people with critical thinking."
Alongside AI, the rector champions the role of Humanities, implementing a transversal program so that students from any degree can take subjects such as Philosophy, Ethics, Literature, Art History, or History, seeking a comprehensive humanistic education for all professionals.
Finally, the goal is to strengthen the presence of the University of Alcalá in the Corredor del Henares, fostering greater collaboration with growing municipalities like Daganzo de Arriba, where a new chair for the Social Archaeology degree will be established. The recent establishment of the UAH in Torrejón de Ardoz, with the cession of a building for 75 years and the launch of high-demand degrees such as Nursing and Physiotherapy, is part of this expansion strategy.
