• The recognition highlights the University’s dedication to academic excellence and meaningful contributions in peace and sustainability studies.

San José, Costa Rica, 17 September 2025. The United Nations-mandated University for Peace (UPEACE) proudly announces that three of its academic programs have been officially accredited by SINAES. This significant achievement reaffirms the university’s commitment to academic excellence, quality, and impact in peace and sustainability studies.

The accreditation ceremony, held on September 17, 2025, at UPEACE’s main campus, featured representatives from SINAES, members of the UPEACE Council, faculty, and students. The event marked the beginning of a new chapter in academic formation at the university.

The accreditation ceremony was a heartfelt occasion, presided over by Dr. Lady Meléndez Rodríguez, president of the National Accreditation Council. She presented the certificates to UPEACE Rector Dr. Francisco Rojas Aravena, and later to enthusiastic student representatives from each accredited programme. The programs, which will proudly carry the SINAES seal of quality until 2029, include the M.A. in Peace Education, the M.A. in Environment, Development, and Peace, and the M.A. in Conflict Resolution, Peace, and Development (taught in Spanish).

“Peace is a fundamental goal for humanity. Without it, we cannot fight for our rights, nature, and equality. How to create peace is what we strive to teach every day. This recognition from SINAES reaffirms that we are doing the right thing,” stated Rector Rojas Aravena.

The highlight of the ceremony came when three inspiring alumni—one from each accredited program—took the stage to share their transformative UPEACE experiences. Their emotional testimonials illuminated the profound impact of their education, underscoring the uniqueness of UPEACE’s programs and the strength of its community. Read Yanira Discua Wilson’s intervention here.

All UPEACE, programmes are accredited by the International Association of Universities (IAU) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), ensuring global recognition and credibility. With these new accreditations, UPEACE now boasts a total of eight programmes accredited by SINAES.

By obtaining this accreditation, UPEACE strengthens its role as a leading institution in peace and conflict studies, ensuring that its graduates are equipped with the highest standards of academic preparation and practical relevance.

About UPEACE

Founded in pursuance of UN General Assembly Resolution 35/55 in 1980, UPEACE has been training leaders for peace for over four decades. As a unique global academic institution, it has over 6,000 alumni from more than 120 nations working for peace worldwide. UPEACE is the only institution within the United Nations system mandated exclusively for peace education.

For more information, please contact Ariela Fernández Tichler, Director of Communications, at afernandez@upeace.org.

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