UNL Faculty Members Achieve International Certification

“International Educator” is the certification awarded to 127 professors from the National University of Loja (UNL) through the European Union’s Erasmus+ program, which fosters cooperation among higher education institutions to enhance the quality of teaching, research, and innovation.

Through the EENTITLE and E-TALENT projects—aimed at strengthening the capabilities of engineering and social science educators, respectively—the professors gathered evidence of their academic track record, professional development, pedagogical innovation, and professional experience before undergoing an evaluation to verify compliance with international standards and qualify for one of six tiers.

The certification is open to all higher education faculty—from public and private universities and institutes—across Loja, El Oro, and Zamora Chinchipe through the Capacity Development Center established at UNL. Participating educators can also access specialized training, academic exchanges, international speaking opportunities, and recognitions, among other benefits.

Nikolay Aguirre and Elvia Zhapa, rector and vice-rector of UNL, are among the 127 certified professors, both earning Category 5 status. The university’s chief executive stated that transformation begins in the classroom and with those who educate the new generations. “I underwent the certification process not out of vanity, but to lead by example and prove to ourselves what UNL professors are made of,” he emphasized.

The president of the ENTER Network, José Carlos Quadrado, highlighted that behind every educator stands a family that supports, accompanies, and shares in their achievements, making this recognition a tribute to that collective effort as well. He also noted that an alliance has been established with UNL to pursue academic excellence through an innovative model for the development, evaluation, and recognition of educators.