On 15 April, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya will host the inaugural edition of the Majúscula Awards, an initiative of the Faculty of Education Sciences that will bring together students in the final two years of upper secondary school or a higher vocational training programme in pre-primary education in Catalonia.

The purpose of the Majúscula Awards is to recognise and further explore the positive and transformative social impact of the teaching profession. To this end, the competition gives future university students a platform to pay tribute to a teacher who made a lasting impact on their lives, through a written, visual or audiovisual submission.

To recognise the effort and creativity of the best creations, the Faculty will award three prizes, one in each category. Each prize will comprise a grant covering 40% of the first-year tuition fees for one of the degree programmes offered by UIC’s Faculty of Education Sciences.

Teachers: a key influence in people’s holistic development

The call aims to showcase the essential role that teachers play in the education system and recognise their vital contribution to the holistic development of individuals and social progress. At the same time, the competition highlights teachers’ role as agents of change and social cohesion, capable of fostering values such as peaceful coexistence, respect, inclusion and equity.

Enric Vidal, dean of the Faculty of Education Sciences, urged students to take part: “There are teachers who leave a lasting mark that extends far beyond the classroom. They inspire students to discover their vocations, build their confidence and nurture their curiosity. Often without even realising it, they help shape the paths that many of their students take in life,” he emphasises. “We hope that the Majúscula Awards will provide a space for students to express their gratitude to teachers who have made a meaningful difference to their learning and personal growth, and recognise their impact,” he adds.

The Education Awards Ceremony

To celebrate the recognition of the best creative entries, the Faculty will host the Education Awards Ceremony on 15 April in the University’s Aula Magna. The event will bring together students, teachers, schools, institutions, authorities, education sector organisations and the university community.

The idea behind the Education Awards Ceremony is to create an annual event that celebrates the teaching profession, shares inspiring experiences, fosters connections across the education sector and highlights the transformative role of education in society. It also aims to showcase the talent and creativity of younger generations, encouraging future educators to reflect on the value of the teaching profession and its impact on people’s lives.

Students interested in entering the competition can see the terms and conditions on the Majúscula Awards website. The deadline for submitting projects is 15 March.

At a time when the role of schools and teachers is at the centre of public debate, the Majúscula Awards seek to highlight the importance of teaching and recognise the value of a profession that, now more than ever, must navigate increasingly complex educational, social and human challenges.