# National Open and Distance University

> Colombian public university

**Wikidata**: [Q5556466](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q5556466)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/national-open-and-distance-university

## Summary
The National Open and Distance University (UNAD) is a Colombian public university founded in 1981, specializing in open and distance education. It is the largest university in Colombia by enrollment and offers flexible learning programs to students across the country.

## Key Facts
- Founded: July 7, 1981
- Type: Public university
- Location: Bogotá, Colombia
- Enrollment: Largest university in Colombia by student count
- Education Model: Open and distance learning
- Affiliation: Member of the Association of Colombian Universities
- Official Name: Universidad Nacional Abierta y a Distancia
- Short Name: UNAD
- Website: [www.unad.edu.co](http://www.unad.edu.co)
- Social Media: Active presence on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube

## FAQs
### Q: What is UNAD known for?
A: UNAD is known for its open and distance education model, making higher education accessible to students across Colombia, including those in rural or remote areas.

### Q: How many students does UNAD enroll?
A: UNAD is the largest university in Colombia by enrollment, serving thousands of students through its distance learning programs.

### Q: Is UNAD a public or private university?
A: UNAD is a public university, funded by the Colombian government and offering tuition-free education to eligible students.

### Q: What social media platforms does UNAD use?
A: UNAD maintains active profiles on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, with a significant following across these platforms.

### Q: What is UNAD's official name?
A: The official name of the university is Universidad Nacional Abierta y a Distancia (National Open and Distance University).

## Why It Matters
UNAD plays a crucial role in democratizing education in Colombia by providing accessible higher education through open and distance learning. Established in 1981, it has grown into the largest university in the country, serving over 1.5 million students. UNAD's model allows students to study at their own pace, making education more inclusive and flexible. The university is a member of the Association of Colombian Universities and has a strong digital presence, with active social media engagement. By offering tuition-free education, UNAD ensures that financial barriers do not hinder access to higher learning, contributing significantly to Colombia's educational landscape.

## Notable For
- Largest university in Colombia by enrollment
- Pioneering open and distance education in the country
- Tuition-free education for eligible students
- Strong digital presence with active social media engagement
- Member of the Association of Colombian Universities

## Body
### Founding and History
UNAD was founded on July 7, 1981, as a public university dedicated to open and distance education. Its mission is to provide accessible higher education to students across Colombia, particularly those in rural or underserved areas.

### Education Model
UNAD specializes in distance learning, offering flexible programs that allow students to study at their own pace. The university serves over 1.5 million students, making it the largest in Colombia.

### Affiliations and Memberships
UNAD is a member of the Association of Colombian Universities, ensuring its alignment with national educational standards and policies.

### Digital Presence
The university maintains active profiles on multiple social media platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, with a significant following.

### Official Details
- **Official Name**: Universidad Nacional Abierta y a Distancia
- **Short Name**: UNAD
- **Website**: [www.unad.edu.co](http://www.unad.edu.co)
- **Location**: Bogotá, Colombia
- **Type**: Public university

### Social Media Engagement
UNAD has a strong digital footprint, with verified accounts on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, as well as a dedicated YouTube channel. The university's social media presence includes regular updates and engagement with students and the public.

## References

1. Directory of Open Access Journals
2. [Source](https://web.archive.org/web/20231020113811/https://orcid.org/members)
3. [Source](https://web.archive.org/web/20191222091657/https://www.ascun.org.co/organizacion/index/universidades-asociadas)
4. [Source](https://www.educamas.com.co/empresas/)
5. [Source](http://www.unad.edu.co)
6. [Source](https://www.facebook.com/UniversidadUNAD)
7. YouTube API