The University Côte d’Azur is starting the 2024-2025 academic year with ambitious projects. The goal is to transform the academic and social landscape of the institution. With the official recognition of its status as a center of excellence in artificial intelligence, the expansion of its social support, and the implementation of solidarity initiatives, the university positions itself as a key player in innovation and student well-being.
The 2024-2025 academic year marks progress at the University Côte d’Azur, known for its innovation and student support. Designated in May 2024 as one of the nine centers of excellence in artificial intelligence in France, it integrates this technology into all disciplines to prepare tomorrow’s professionals. The university also reinforces its social support with social workers, emergency housing, and community fridges. By focusing on civic engagement and access to health care, it positions itself as a model of inclusion and innovation.
Main Projects of the Year
Two major projects mark the start of the 2024-2025 academic year. University Côte d’Azur was designated in May 2024 as one of the nine centers of excellence in AI in France. This recognition highlights the institution’s strengths in research and training. The university will educate all students on AI, regardless of their discipline.
It is also one of the 25 centers recognized in France for its innovation potential. This project collaborates with local economic players. It aims to strengthen innovation and produce solutions tailored to the needs of the territories.
Strengthened Social Support: Social Workers and Emergency Housing
UCA has implemented a support system for helping students in difficulty. This support mainly addresses housing and social aid. Each campus has social workers who offer personalized support to students. They assist with administrative and financial procedures. In 2023, more than 1,300 consultations took place, highlighting the critical importance of this service. An emergency housing system has been created to support students facing precarious situations or family break-up, providing temporary accommodation to the most vulnerable.
Community Fridges: Combating Food Insecurity
Among the significant new initiatives this academic year, the University has launched a project in partnership with CROUS: community fridges. Placed on campuses, these refrigerators are accessible to all students. Their dual purpose is to combat food insecurity by offering free food and to reduce waste by involving local businesses. The initiative, already implemented on the Cannes campus, is in the process of expanding to all university sites.
Civic Engagement: Training Students to be Agents of Change
The University Côte d’Azur stands out for its support for civic engagement. Indeed, it is one of the few institutions offering a platform to connect students and project leaders. This service facilitates student involvement in projects of general interest. During the past academic year, this initiative mobilized 120 students across 150 missions. This civic engagement helps students acquire valuable skills for the job market and reinforces their role in society. The university aims to go further this year by expanding its network of partners and offering more societal missions linked to local authorities.
Access to Health: Free Healthcare and Comprehensive Coverage
Student health is at the heart of the university’s concerns, which has significantly enhanced its health center. Located in Saint-Jean-d’Angély, this center offers free consultations with doctors, psychologists, and nurses. The university has implemented teleconsultation systems, allowing all students to have medical follow-ups, even those who are distant.
Mental health first aid training has been put in place for staff and teachers to better identify and support students in psychological distress. Special attention is given to students with disabilities, as well as high-level athletes, with specialized services to meet their specific needs.
Sports and Cultural Activities: A Rich and Accessible Offer
Beyond social support and medical care, the University Côte d’Azur offers a wide range of sports and cultural activities. The university provides free access to more than 70 sports disciplines each semester, promoting well-being and combating sedentary lifestyles. On the cultural side, a varied program of shows and events is offered at attractive prices, with tickets available for 5 euros, making activities affordable for a broad audience. The university is also a partner in national events such as the Opera, ensuring a rich and fulfilling student experience.
