The initiative seeks to open training and research possibilities between students from both institutions.

An interesting inter-institutional agreement between the University of La Serena and the Institut des Hautes Études des Communications Sociales -Institute of Higher Studies of Social Communication (IHECS)-, based in Belgium, was developed at the Headquarters of the state entity. The agreement student exchange program, has the purpose of promoting international exchange and improving educational and research opportunities for its students and institutions.

With an initial duration of three years, which can be extended, the exchange of two students per academic year from each institution is stipulated, that is, one per semester. The study program lasts one semester and the courses must be recognized bilaterally. Upon completion of their studies, students receive an ECTS (European Credit Transfer System) certificate at the IHECS or an SCT (Transferable Credit System) certificate at the ULS.

As stated by the Rector of the University of La Serena, Dr. Nibaldo Avilés, ''for the ULS it is a pride to sign this agreement, since it goes in the direction of seeking the common good, of improving education, knowledge and bringing closer to both countries. "We are willing to support this initiative so that it develops in the best way."

It should be noted that as established in the signed agreement, each institution selects its best candidates, who, among other requirements, must master the language in order to benefit from the chosen study program.

In this regard, both institutions further commit to seek and achieve other student exchange opportunities in the future, which will allow them to assist each other in their efforts to further the education of their students, and promote mutual understanding and enrichment of the individuals of their respective countries.

''For us it is very positive to establish a student exchange relationship, it is important to have contacts in America and Chile, because as the world globalizes, exchanges can help the generations that come to have more contact and understanding between peoples'', indicated Dr. Luc De Meyer, Rector of the Institut des Hautes Études des Communications Sociales.

This alliance was signed by the rectors of both institutions, who were accompanied at the signing ceremony of the agreement by the general secretary of the University of La Serena, Mg. Sergio Zepeda, and the coordinator of the ULS International Relations Office, M.Sc. Dietmut Graeff.

Both rectors agreed on the intention to expand and seek other possibilities in the future, which, as far as possible, favor academics in their development.