The Conseller of Linguistic Policy, Francesc Xavier Vila, has underscored the importance of the Universitat Catalana d’Estiu (UCE) in an academic context marked by changes and disorientation, pointing to the presence of “unscientific dogmas”. Vila emphasized that gatherings and reflection in spaces like UCE, "beyond administrative borders," are essential and guaranteed institutional support for the project's continuity.
Joandomènec Ros, president of the UCE board, revealed that this year's edition was nearly suspended in late July due to uncertainty about government financial aid, and criticized that the Generalitat had never "treated them so badly," regardless of the political affiliation of the governments.
In a gesture of support, the president of the Diputació de Lleida, Joan Talarn, announced the doubling of financial aid allocated to UCE, aiming to guarantee future editions of the summer university.
Subsequently, in statements to ‘Catalunya Ràdio’, Vila confirmed that the delay in financial aid “is being resolved” and reiterated that the project has a future, despite the need to "keep renewing and adapting to the times." He stressed the government's commitment to moving UCE forward.
During the closing of the 58th edition in Prada (Catalunya Nord), Vila focused on UCE's role as a space for thought and debate in Catalan, valuing its realization in a location where "Catalan is weaker," yet with participation from all Catalan Countries.
The conseller warned of the "specific, far-reaching challenges" facing the academic sphere, such as the integration of artificial intelligence, the loss of trust due to denialist discourse, the rise of the far-right and attacks on the Catalan language. He also mentioned climate change, migration, and low birth rates, presenting UCE as a suitable space to address them with reflection and independence.
