A Brief Introduction to the History of the Catholic University
The Catholic University was created by the church and opened its doors in 1960. At that time the State University was already in place, but the Catholic University came into being with a special position due to its real confessional element and because it tried to spread the values of the Catholic faith with the fundamental objective of training Paraguay’s society under the values of true commitment.
The Catholic University first opened its doors in Asuncion and immediately after decided to open up more branches around the country. At this instance it had 16 campuses and close to 25,000 students, being one of the most prestigious universities in Paraguay and best known to be the first confessional university of the country.

“Education is the way for society to set values and work towards the objectives for the good of all”

What are the added values of the Catholic University and its guarantee of quality?

We are a university that demands presence and commitment: dedication from ourselves, the professors, and the students. We have an admission course and a scholarship programme. As a rule, 75% attendance is required in order for the student to retain the right to be evaluated and pass his or her degree.
Since its inception, the Catholic University has always aspired for a high level of education, without forgetting Christian values and with a strong emphasis on humanism. Our admission course, apart from helping students adapt to the rhythm of the university, also helps in developing a system of values. It is a week-long course in which the student has to reflect upon the relationship between faith and reason, and how the concepts of truth and knowledge can be combined.

This is the presentation of the Christian doctrine and the commitment of all humanity in looking for the synthesis of all human dimensions.
Lastly, at the Catholic University we do social promotion, because although we are a private institution and we do charge tuition fees, we also offer great scholarship plans. Roughly 8% of our budget is dedicated to our scholarship plan.

How is the Catholic University known internationally? What agreements do you have with other universities on an international level?

Firstly, we are part of the catholic universities of the world, of which there are more than 1700. We have agreements with both public and private institutions worldwide. We are testing academic and student mobility, while encouraging both our professors and students to gain experience abroad, and the same for our students. We have partnerships with some very reputable universities, such as Harvard.

How is the government trying to improve the higher education system of the country?

As the Catholic University, we are heavily involved in the country’s process of revision and updating higher education with the criteria accepted internationally. For this reason, we are really committed and trusting of the new accreditation process.

What message would you give to the youth of Paraguay?

The advice that I give to the youth is to look for the opportunity to study. They should ask for what they have the right to: a fair education and an honest presentation of science. When we talk about a specific faculty, which needs libraries, laboratories, or professors with the necessary qualifications, students have to be the first to control and request the right documents accrediting the university they are attending.