In 1972, a vision took shape here at the Instituto de Altos Estudios Nacionales IAEN. It was born from a desire to strengthen Ecuador. General Guillermo Rodriguez Lara established it. The goal was to train civilians and military personnel. They would work together on national projects. IAEN also had to research national problems. It was to analyze them in relation to the world.
IAEN’s early days were linked to state consolidation. Military governments supported this in the 1970s. The institute reported to the National Security Council. A military officer directed it. In the 1980s, democracy returned. Still, the military managed IAEN. Professionals studied politics, development and security.
In 1996, IAEN gained recognition. The National Congress called it a higher academic institution. This was cemented in the Higher Education Law of 2010. By 2018, a law confirmed IAEN’s mission. It is the State’s postgraduate university. IAEN trains people for public service. It researches strategic thinking. It helps develop public policies.
IAEN is now a hub for state science ideas. It sees the state as a web of relationships. These are human and institutional. They exist in political and legal contexts. IAEN strives for the common good. Its academic programs address vital issues. They promote development.
IAEN offers postgraduate programs in various fields. These include Public Administration and Political Science. You can also study Sociology, Economics or International Relations. These full-time courses usually last two years.
IAEN seeks students with strong academic records. The admission process requires documents and interviews. The university offers scholarships to those who qualify. IAEN provides a library and research labs.
IAEN is open to universal thought. It values free academic inquiry. It welcomes research. The Instituto de Altos Estudios Nacionales rejects discrimination. Academic merit is key to entry and graduation.
The IAEN is subject to constitutional control. It is accountable to society. The IAEN operates under the slogan La Patria, Nuestra Causa. This means The Homeland is Our Cause. The Instituto de Altos Estudios Nacionales embodies this principle.