Colombianitud

"Colombianitud" is a term not yet coined by the Royal Academy of Language or the Dictionary of Colombianisms, but it perfectly expresses the integration of diversities that define the character, the strength, the expectations, the virtues, and even the weaknesses of those born in this homeland.

To better understand the benefits and challenges this entails and, above all, to enhance that pride in being Colombian with a view to consolidating a prosperous nation with widespread well-being in the medium and long term, the text begins with a documented historical analysis that promotes keys to answering the question: whether, culturally and experientially, we are the mixture of what we inherited from the indigenous aborigines, whose distinctive traits were the essence of the Afro-Colombian communities, and the good or bad customs we learned or were imposed on us by the Spanish conquerors, which has been shaped in stages prior to and since the cry for independence?

The author's experience, training, and research as rector of the university with the largest presence and number of students in every corner of the country allow us to understand how inclusive, universal, and high-quality education could well strengthen the ethos of the Colombian people for the good of all, especially future generations.