At Fundación Zuá, the Higher Education program, from our academic perspective, is the main initiative aimed at creating an environment that encourages learning how to think, strengthening autonomy, discovering and making the most of the arts and sciences, in order to shape better human beings and break the cycle of poverty.
Higher education is the most effective strategy for transforming young people and their environment, and we have witnessed this as more university students complete their degrees and begin working as professionals. This is where Fundación Zuá has a profound impact on the community in the short, medium, and especially long term.
Of course, it has not always been easy. For many young people, having the opportunity to attend university meant facing not only an entirely unfamiliar environment, but also the challenge of a very weak basic education, which often led to failed courses, lost semesters, changes in majors, and even dropping out. All of this was addressed through the creation of a one-year pre-university program, which allows students to improve their scores on the Saber Tests, strengthen their basic competencies, successfully adapt to university studies, and reduce dropout rates.
This experience combines support with high expectations, helping individuals regain the ability to dream and make those dreams come true. Our philosophy is not about “giving things away”; it is about empowerment. We help students recognize their talents and place them at the service of themselves and others. However, they require support to achieve their goals, and that is where we must be present. In return for this support, these young people give back to their communities: students from the urban campuses serve as tutors for younger children, while students from Senderos help organize the rural campus. It is an experience that blends support with responsibility, allowing them to recognize their talents and put them at the service of others.
We present the testimonies of five young people who began their university studies in January of this year thanks to the financial support of the Foundation, especially through the payment of semester tuition, as well as assistance with transportation, meals, and, in the case of the three students from Senderos, housing.
Sara Gomez
“I am 20 years old and I study Graphic Design at Universidad Minuto de Dios. These months at university have been fascinating; my professors motivate me to improve my skills, and I enjoy every step of the creative process. I always give my best effort in order to achieve academic excellence. Thanks to Fundación Zuá for your support; this university dream would not be possible without you.”
Deiner Guamanga
“During these months studying Industrial Engineering at Politécnico Grancolombiano, I have successfully understood the subjects in each course. This has been possible thanks to the academic and personal preparation I received at Fundación Zuá last year, which was essential in helping me choose the right career path. I feel calm and very satisfied with this decision, and I am deeply grateful to the Foundation for giving me the opportunity to grow both professionally and personally.”
Yojan Guzmán
“In these months studying Systems Engineering at Universidad Compensar, I have felt very happy and comfortable because it is the career I truly enjoy, and I hope to complete it successfully. I have learned many valuable things, such as managing my time properly and working virtually as part of a team. In addition, this university experience has inspired me to set new goals and focus on my personal growth. I am very grateful to Fundación Zuá for making this possible.”
Kevin Esteban Alba
“Studying Modern Languages at ECCI University has been a wonderful learning experience. I truly value the new environments and the engaging nature of the classes. Although I find the Administration course challenging, I remain committed to learning. I enjoy my major, especially because of the clarity of the professors and the quality of the facilities available to us. Thank you to Fundación Zuá for this opportunity.”
Yeison Gomez
“Entering Politécnico Grancolombiano to study Industrial Engineering was always something that felt very distant, almost unimaginable. For a long time, I saw it as a dream that would be difficult to achieve. However, thanks to hard work, perseverance, and the support of the people around me at Fundación Zuá and my teachers, today that dream has become a reality. These months have been a completely new experience, full of learning and challenges. At first, adapting was difficult because being in a classroom is not the same as learning virtually. With every class, I gained new knowledge. As I studied the theory and completed assignments, I began to better understand what my career means and the future that awaits me. Time management, discipline, and responsibility are extremely important, since assignments require greater dedication. I also learned how to use virtual platforms, which has helped me become more independent. Thank you very much.”
We count on your support so that many more young people can make their dream of pursuing a professional career come true.
You can also make your donation to Fundación Zuá (Tax ID: 830104271-8) through deposit or bank transfer to the following accounts:
BANCOLOMBIA: Savings Account 193 110 588 03
DAVIVIENDA: Savings Account 005 100 104 321
BBVA: Savings Account 724 155 171
Copyright © 2025 Fundación Zuá. All rights reserved.
Fundación Zuá
Carrera 99 D Bis No. 38 C – 23 Sur
Bogotá, Colombia