CUNEF Universidad strengthens student wellbeing through its membership in REUPS

CUNEF Universidad has joined the Spanish Network of Health-Promoting Universities (REUPS), an organization made up of 63 Spanish universities and representing a community of approximately 1.5 million students. REUPS is dedicated to integrating health promotion and wellbeing into university environments. Through this membership, CUNEF Universidad reinforces its commitment to collaboration and to a strategy focused on caring for its academic community.

CUNEF Universidad’s commitment to wellbeing and sustainability is closely aligned with its holistic vision of higher education and the values that guide the institution. This commitment is reflected in a rigorous, innovative, and excellence-driven educational model that incorporates ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria into its academic framework. The university also aligns its strategy with the United Nations 2030 Agenda and the Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME).

By joining REUPS, CUNEF Universidad aims to promote research and teaching related to health promotion while encouraging the exchange of knowledge and best practices with other institutions. Through this initiative, the university becomes part of a network that includes universities as well as Spain’s Ministries of Health, Consumer Affairs and Social Welfare, and Education, Vocational Training and Sports, among other organizations, with the shared goal of embedding health promotion across university policies.

Commitment to people and the environment

This comprehensive approach is already reflected in a range of initiatives that actively promote the physical, mental, and social wellbeing of the entire university community.

In the area of wellbeing, the institution offers 15 sports activities, including both individual and team disciplines. Beyond physical fitness, sport is recognized as a way of fostering essential values within the community, such as teamwork, motivation, leadership, and resilience.

In addition, the university’s Counselling Service provides ongoing support to students in areas related to academic life, including stress and anxiety management, time management, study techniques, self-demand and self-esteem, as well as preparation for recruitment processes and job interviews.

Accessibility and inclusive campus design are also fundamental elements of the university’s wellbeing strategy. In line with this commitment, CUNEF Universidad’s Almansa Campus obtained the 5-Star Accessibility Indicator System (AIS) certification this year, becoming the first campus of a private university worldwide to achieve the highest distinction in this field. The certification recognizes the implementation of an accessible environment featuring tactile signage, accessible furniture, adjustable whiteboards with support screens, and accessible service counters equipped with portable magnetic induction loops in the library and classrooms.

Each year, the university also hosts BE Healthy WEEK, an initiative that brings the university community together through activities designed to promote healthy habits, sustainability, and self-care. This year’s programme included sports challenges, inspirational talks on health and resilience, first aid and CPR workshops, healthy nutrition sessions, a blood donation campaign, and a Sustainable Cooking Championship.

The university community also collaborates with the Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC) on initiatives focused on preventing alcohol and tobacco consumption, promoting healthy eating, encouraging sun protection and physical activity, and participates in blood donation campaigns with the Spanish Red Cross as well as first aid training workshops.

Looking ahead, membership in REUPS will enable CUNEF Universidad to continue developing new initiatives, collaborate on shared projects, and exchange best practices with other institutions committed to promoting health and wellbeing in higher education.

Access here the health-promoting webs of REUPS' universities network.