Held at the Foundation’s headquarters, the event celebrated the growth of a project that, over the past decade, has become a key part of the University’s social commitment and a leading example in community nursing education, health promotion, and support for individuals and families in vulnerable situations.
A model focused on real-world learning and nursing leadership
The Nursing Care, Teaching and Research Units (AIDIR) are spaces where students take a leading role. Under the guidance of a mentor, they deliver health education activities aimed at people at risk of social exclusion or facing adverse health conditions, as well as their families and the wider community.
The conference was chaired by Lorena Moya, coordinator of AIDIR Ciutat Vella, who emphasised “the enthusiasm, teamwork and leadership skills of the students”, all core values of the project.
Meanwhile, Cristina Segura, director of the Fundació de l’Esperança, and Dr Encarna Rodríguez, director of the Department of Nursing at the university, highlighted the project’s transformative impact in bridging academic excellence with social reality. The figures speak for themselves: 112 students on placements, 889 training sessions delivered, 4,255 people attended, and 75% of participants showing demonstrable improvement in leadership.
One of the most notable moments of the session was the round table with students Michelle Monsalve and Tomás Bodego, who shared their experiences during their placements at AIDIR. Michelle praised the project’s holistic approach, while Tomás reminded attendees that “the essence of nursing is caring”.
Dr Albert Gallart, deputy director of the Department of Nursing and head of the Unit, commended the students’ strong commitment and professionalism. The day concluded with a Service-Learning (APS) activity.
Looking ahead: expanding to reach more people
The event closed with a shared aspiration: for AIDIR to continue growing and extend its reach to more neighbourhoods, foundations, and associations in need of community health workshops and programmes. After ten years of history, AIDIR Ciutat Vella reaffirms its mission: to promote health, create opportunities, support individuals and train professionals capable of transforming their environment with a human and holistic perspective.
Watch the commemorative video
