Chile Adventist University (UNACH) and the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) signed an agreement that will launch a university volunteer program with cross-disciplinary academic training, the first of its kind in South America.

The agreement will integrate volunteering with university education that will develop skills for students to participate in social and humanitarian actions.

The initiative was presented during a meeting held at Casa Etchevers, Extension Center of UNACH, with the participation of representatives from ADRA and the educational institution.

The project originated as an initiative of ADRA South America to expand volunteer work beyond emergency response. The program includes content ranging from prevention to intervention in more complex situations.

The UNACH will be the first higher education institution in the South American Division to implement this model. The program includes the creation of a student volunteer center and the incorporation of social action content into courses, diploma programs, and other academic training opportunities.

Rodrigo Cárcamo, director of ADRA South America, noted that the initiative will allow students to connect with the organization's work and with the needs of vulnerable communities.

Cárcamo linked the project to the Adventist Church's ministry of serving people in need and emphasized the importance of young people having the tools to participate in these actions.

Isabela Franca, ADRA's Operations and Emergencies manager for Brazil and South America, highlighted Chile's experience in emergency preparedness. She noted that this initiative can help young people participate in a skilled and responsible manner during crisis situations.

The agreement establishes a pilot project that integrates volunteering, academic training, and social action. The experience developed at Chile Adventist University may be considered for future initiatives at other higher education institutions within the South American Division.

The program includes student participation in prevention and response activities to different community needs, along with academic content related to social action.

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