University of the Dr. Aristide Foundation

The University of the Dr. Aristide Foundation (UNIFA) is the result of the determination of men and women gathered within this institution dedicated to the promotion of democracy, culture and science. Aware of the place of higher education in the integral development of the nation, these personalities decided to offer the sons and daughters of the country the opportunity to undertake higher quality studies. A special place was reserved for the young people of the peasantry and the many disadvantaged areas of the country. UNIFA was created in 2001. The first structure to open its doors was the Faculty of Health Sciences. It reflects the growth of fruitful cooperation and a dynamic partnership between the private and public sectors, both national and international. Let the Cuban and Taiwanese governments, in particular, be thanked here. The first 125 UNIFA students were recruited on the basis of rigorous academic prerequisites, gender equity and a strict representation of all the country's geographical departments. The UNIFA Council has included this selection criterion in order to promote the effective integration of all segments of the population into the project. Talented young Haitians from rural areas, previously unable to pursue higher education and, in particular, attending the School of Medicine at the State University, had their place at UNIFA. Guided by this vision, the University has sought out young men and women from poor to modest backgrounds who agree to return to work in their communities as soon as they complete their studies.