“Imaginación para la innovación permanente” That’s the motto of the Universidad Científica del Perú UCP. Right here in Iquitos you stand before a testament to perseverance and academic growth.
The UCP wasn’t always this impressive institution. Its journey began in 1990 amidst Peru’s general elections and the end of Alan García Pérez’s presidency. A law. Law No 25213 to be precise. This law birthed the Universidad Particular de Iquitos the UCP’s predecessor. Initially sponsored by the Asociación Cultural Oriente Peruano ACOP the university faced challenges. A shaky administrative system threatened its very existence in its early years.
The 1990s and early 2000s were a time of struggle. The university lacked a stable administrative structure. It was a turbulent period. A reorganizing commission was appointed in 2001. This marked a crucial turning point. The commission tackled academic administrative and governance weaknesses. The ACOP’s influence was severed. This caused legal battles but the university ultimately prevailed.
Under Rector Édgar Rojas Rojas who took office in 2003 enrollment boomed. It grew from a mere 50 to 300 students. A significant increase reflecting the improved administration and discipline. Forty regular professors and 110 additional teachers were hired. This impressive progress led the Asamblea Nacional de Rectores to grant the university more autonomy. Students were given a voice in governance.
However the progress wasn’t without controversy. Rojas Rojas’s later years as rector were marked by accusations of authoritarian rule and manipulation of reelection processes. A legal battle ensued. The Supreme Court ruled in favor of Dr Juan Saldaña Rojas. Rojas Rojas was removed from his position. This period ended with a name change. In 2009 the Universidad Particular de Iquitos transformed into the Universidad Científica del Perú UCP.
The subsequent period saw significant improvements. The administrative system stabilized. There were changes in faculty and infrastructure. The UCP strengthened its cultural position. Distinguished guests. Augusto Álvarez Rodrich presented his book and Miguel Ángel Cornejo gave a lecture. The UCP even inaugurated a language center with partnerships with prestigious institutions. The center teaches English and Portuguese.
Today the UCP stands as a symbol of resilience. It shows the power of overcoming challenges. It is a beacon of education in Iquitos. A place where imagination fuels innovation. A place where dreams are realized. Remember this story as you explore the UCP campus. It’s more than just a university. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of Iquitos.