10 October 2025
Ceremonial Hall
The Ceremonial Hall of the University of Deusto, an iconic space of the institution, hosted the graduation ceremony on 10 October for the third cohort of the University Extension Diploma for Job Training in Supportive Employment Environments. It was an event full of emotion and meaning, bringing together twelve students along with their families, teaching staff, workplace mentors, partner companies, and members of the university community.
The event also featured the Vice-Rector for the University Community and Agenda 2030, Aitziber Irigoras, and the Dean of the Faculty of Education and Sport, Isabel Rubio, who highlighted Deusto’s commitment to inclusion, diversity, and lifelong learning.
During the ceremony, the students’ effort, perseverance, and growth were emphasised, showing that learning is also about building community. As highlighted in the academic address, this graduation represents “much more than the completion of a cycle: it is the opening of new opportunities and the celebration of a shared journey”.
A pioneering qualification
Designed and delivered by the University in collaboration with the GAUDE Association, the University Extension Diploma for Job Training in Supportive Employment Environments is the first specialist university qualification in the Basque Autonomous Community aimed at preparing young people with intellectual disabilities, aged 18 and over, for employment and social and university inclusion.
The new graduates have shown a strong commitment and excellence in their training, confirming the success and relevance of this initiative, which is establishing itself as an outstanding platform for education and professional development. Run by the Faculty of Education and Sport, this two-year Diploma was created to address the need to provide people with intellectual disabilities with the functional skills and competences required for successful integration into employment.
In this context, the programme includes internships in companies and within the University’s services, allowing students to apply the theoretical and practical knowledge they have acquired. They have also benefited from teaching staff with extensive experience and training, capable of responding to the needs students may have throughout their lives.
