UNATE Christmas Gala Shines a Light on Lifelong Learning in Salta Province – A Model for Argentina
SALTA, ARGENTINA – December 26, 2024 – A wave of emotion, music, and recognition swept through the Juan Carlos Saravia Provincial Theater last night as the Open University of the Third Age (UNATE) celebrated its 2025 Christmas Gala. This isn’t just a festive event; it’s a powerful demonstration of the growing importance of lifelong learning and the vibrant contributions of seniors in Salta Province, and increasingly, across Argentina. This breaking news highlights a success story that deserves national attention, and is optimized for Google News and SEO visibility.
A Night of Recognition and Artistic Flourish
Hundreds gathered to witness the gala, including provincial authorities, honored guests, dedicated teachers, enthusiastic students, and their families. The evening commenced with a moving rendition of the Argentine National Anthem and the Malvinas March, performed by the Provincial Choir of the Elderly. UNATE Director Susana Tessio and Secretary of the Elderly Juan Carlos Villamayor extended warm welcomes, setting a tone of gratitude and celebration.
A particularly touching moment came with the recognition of UNATE’s pioneering educators, Silvia Munguía and Margarita Alemán, alongside one of its earliest students, Mirta Lafuente. Their dedication laid the foundation for an institution that now serves over 4,000 students. The gala itself was a showcase of talent, featuring performances from UNATE’s diverse workshops – from the energetic La Caldera Folkloric Ballet to engaging sessions in Computer Science, Tango, Yoga, and more. Each presentation embodied the institution’s core values: creativity, inclusivity, and active participation.
Expansion and Investment Fuel UNATE’s Growth
Director Tessio emphasized the significant impact of recent infrastructure improvements. “This year, we saw a remarkable number of students on stage,” she stated, “demonstrating that more and more people are benefiting from and accessing UNATE.” These gains are directly linked to remodeling, renovation, and expansion projects funded by the Provincial Government, providing much-needed space for the growing student body. Since 2019, and with the strong backing of Governor Gustavo Sáenz and his wife, UNATE has experienced a period of sustained growth and institutional strengthening.
The story of UNATE isn’t just about numbers; it’s about transforming lives. Lifelong learning is increasingly recognized as crucial for maintaining cognitive health, social connection, and overall well-being in later life. Studies show that continued engagement in learning activities can delay the onset of cognitive decline and improve quality of life for seniors. UNATE provides a vital outlet for this, offering a supportive and stimulating environment for personal growth.
A National Model for Senior Engagement
Secretary Villamayor underscored UNATE’s significance, stating, “It is a pride that an institution with more than 35 years is installed in the feeling and institutional reality of Salta. UNATE is a model in the country.” He highlighted the institution’s impressive scale – nearly 70 teachers, a wide array of workshops, and a thriving community of over 4,000 students. The recent infrastructure upgrades, incorporating modern amenities while preserving the building’s historical character, further solidify UNATE’s position as a leading center for senior education.
Perhaps most exciting is the emergence of “Federal UNATE,” an initiative extending the program to six municipalities across the province. This expansion represents a significant step towards making lifelong learning accessible to a wider population. Villamayor powerfully concluded, “Celebrating a full theater is a strong message of the validity of older people and the respect they deserve; their wisdom and experience are fundamental for our society.”
The success of the gala and the continued growth of UNATE are a testament to the power of community support and the dedication of its staff, including Sandra Fuenzalida, Georgina Mena, Rosana Perolio, Laura Herrera, Belén Herrera, Nadia Quipildor, Yolanda Sánchez, Fernanda Ortellado, Roberto Martínez, Mario García, Miguel Miranda, Marcelo Wierna, and Mariela Esquiú, all of whom were warmly thanked for their contributions. UNATE’s story is a compelling reminder that age is no barrier to learning, growth, and a fulfilling life, and a shining example of how investing in seniors benefits society as a whole.
Stay tuned to archyde.com for more breaking news and in-depth coverage of initiatives promoting lifelong learning and positive aging. Explore our resources on senior wellness and community engagement to discover how you can make a difference.
