health
Virtual Education is Key to Closing Gaps in Colombia
Juan Fernando Montañez, rector of Politécnico Grancolombiano. Photo: Courtesy Poli. Photo:
TL;DR
- Politécnico Grancolombiano serves over 58,500 students in 965 municipalities, demonstrating the reach of flexible education models.
- The student demographic is diverse, ranging from 14 to over 70 years old, with over 70% being working adults.
- The institution utilizes over 100 smart technology-supported simulators and immersive environments for hands-on learning.
- Soft skills are integrated across all academic programs to complement technical training.
- The 'education for life' model articulates technical, technological, university, and postgraduate education.
- Postgraduate virtual offerings are designed for professionals needing to study while working.
- Employability strategies involve collaborations with local businesses to meet market demands.
- Over 55% of students are women, with virtuality playing a key role in closing gender gaps.
- The 'Huella Grancolombiana' scholarship program has awarded over 33,500 scholarships, focusing on equity and inclusion.
- Notable student innovations include a device for analyzing newborn cardiac behavior, recognized with a patent.