Bolivia Adventist University (Universidad Adventista de Bolivia, UAB) has received the Great Place to Work® (GPTW) certification, a globally recognized distinction that places it among the institutions with the best work environment in the country. According to the university, UAB becomes the second university in Bolivia to receive this distinction and the first Adventist institution in South America to achieve this certification.

University leaders said the certification affirms UAB’s commitment not only to academic quality, but also to staff care and well-being. The recognition also allows the institution to be included in Great Place to Work’s list of certified organizations, maintain a profile on the GPTW website, and participate in national rankings of top workplaces.

The evaluation process

According to UAB, Great Place to Work certification is granted through an evaluation process that reviews an organization’s work environment and employee experience. UAB said the assessment examined areas such as clarity of institutional vision and mission, defined objectives and procedures, and levels of employee satisfaction, recognition, and feedback.

UAB reported that 155 employees participated in an anonymous and confidential workplace climate survey. The results were rated “very good,” which the university said met the requirement for certification. UAB added that the process was overseen by the GPTW committee to ensure confidentiality and transparency.

Significance and next steps

University President Alfredo Santa Cruz said the certification brought encouragement to the institution and reflected an environment where employees feel valued. He described staff as a “family” working together to serve students in their professional preparation.

"The appreciation of our staff is fundamental; today they become family. It is the family that works to serve our students in their professional training," Santa Cruz emphasized.

UAB leaders said the certification marks a milestone both nationally and within the Adventist education system, strengthening institutional visibility and supporting efforts to attract qualified professionals. The university noted the certification is valid for one year, with the possibility of renewal in December 2026, and described the recognition as a starting point for continued growth.

Sandra Charcas, director of Human Talent Management (HTM) at the university, emphasized that the certification reaffirms the institution's purpose.

"We firmly believe that we are fulfilling our mission to be an institution of excellence in service and mission," she stated.

She added, "We not only take care of the students, but we also take care of those who contribute to a positive learning environment for them."

Looking ahead, UAB is working on its application to the Great Place to Work rankings, currently under evaluation by the South American committee, with the goal of positioning itself among the top 100 organizations in the country. At the same time, the university shared that it will continue to strengthen its leadership practices, optimize internal processes, and consolidate its identified strengths.

The original article was published on the South American Division Spanish news site.