The Universidad Nacional de las Comunas (UNaCom), or National University of the Communes, is a relatively new public university in Argentina dedicated to studying, promoting, and strengthening communal organization and popular participation in governance. Established in 2015, UNaCom represents a unique and innovative approach to higher education, explicitly focusing on the principles of participatory democracy and community empowerment. It distinguishes itself from more traditional universities by prioritizing practical knowledge and community-based learning alongside theoretical frameworks.
The university’s creation was heavily influenced by the resurgence of communal organizing and popular movements in Argentina, particularly after the 2001 economic crisis. These movements highlighted the need for alternative models of governance and social organization that prioritize direct citizen participation and local control. UNaCom was conceived as a space to systematize the knowledge and experiences of these movements, providing a platform for research, training, and policy development related to communalism and popular power.
UNaCom’s academic offerings reflect its focus on communal organization. The university provides undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as political science, sociology, anthropology, social work, and community development, but with a distinctive emphasis on participatory methodologies and the study of communal experiences. The curriculum often integrates practical fieldwork and community-based projects, allowing students to learn firsthand from existing communal initiatives. Furthermore, UNaCom offers specialized workshops and courses aimed at equipping community leaders and activists with the skills and knowledge necessary to strengthen their organizations and participate effectively in local governance.
A key aspect of UNaCom’s mission is to foster a closer relationship between the university and the communities it serves. The university actively collaborates with local organizations, social movements, and government agencies to identify community needs and develop relevant research and training programs. This participatory approach ensures that UNaCom’s academic activities are aligned with the practical challenges and opportunities faced by communities striving for greater self-determination. The university also provides technical assistance and consulting services to help communities implement innovative governance models and strengthen their capacity for collective decision-making.
UNaCom operates on a decentralized model, with campuses and learning centers located in various regions of Argentina. This distributed structure allows the university to adapt its programs and activities to the specific context of each community. It also facilitates greater accessibility for students from marginalized and underrepresented groups, who may face barriers to accessing traditional universities located in urban centers.
Despite its relatively young age, UNaCom has made significant contributions to the study and promotion of communal organization in Argentina. The university has produced valuable research on the history, theory, and practice of communalism, and it has played a key role in fostering dialogue and collaboration between different communal initiatives. UNaCom’s graduates are increasingly employed in community-based organizations, government agencies, and other sectors where they can contribute to the advancement of participatory democracy and social justice. As a unique institution dedicated to the study and practice of communalism, UNaCom continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of local governance and community empowerment in Argentina.
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