Universitat de Lleida, Spain
At the University of Lleida (UdL), children’s rights are integral to the academic and research framework, particularly within the fields of education, social work, and psychopedagogy. Inspired by the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), UdL aligns its educational initiatives fostering a robust understanding of children’s rights among students and professionals.
In undergraduate programs such as Early Childhood Education and Primary Education, children’s rights are systematically incorporated across various subjects. These degrees are underpinned by the Guide to Children's Rights and Global Citizenship in Education Faculties, ensuring UNCRC principles are embedded throughout the teacher training process. Likewise, the Social Work and Social Education degrees offer specialized courses, including Intervention in Families for the Protection of Childhood and Social Risk Prevention in Children and Adolescents. These courses equip students to address the needs of vulnerable childhoods and promote meaningful change.
At the graduate level, the Master’s in Psychopedagogy emphasizes children’s rights within psychosocial and educational intervention contexts. The standout course, Psychopedagogical Intervention in Vulnerable Populations, underscores UdL's commitment to child well-being and rights.
Regarding the research field, GRIAF’s research group enhances professional development and knowledge transfer through initiatives such as the Chair of Education and Adolescence, a collaborative effort with the Government of Catalonia. This Chair offers transversal training courses, such as micro credential or seminars offered to professionals or university students that will be in contact with childhoods, adolescence or families at risk with essential knowledge on children’s rights. Internationally, UdL participates in the K-Reporters project, an EU-funded initiative to challenge neo-liberal and colonial frameworks in childhood studies. The project includes activities like the Summer School on Participatory and Narrative Methods, to be held in June 2025 at Ghent University for junior researchers.
UdL remains committed to embedding children’s rights in higher education, ensuring that future educators, social workers, and policymakers are equipped to advocate for and uphold these rights.
