IST Juan Montalvo

Instituto Superior Tecnológico Juan Montalvo (ISTJM) is a private, self-financed, nonprofit higher education institution in Loja, Ecuador. Established in 2002, it has its own legal identity and administrative, financial, and organizational autonomy. The institute received accreditation in 2016, which was extended by Ecuador’s higher education quality assurance council in 2021.

ISTJM’s educational approach draws on the principles of the solidarity economy and emphasizes learning shaped by individuals and their communities, with the aim of supporting collective development and a dignified life. It works to expand access to higher education for young people and adults nationwide through virtual study options, academic induction for admissions, accessible costs, and scholarships for people in the solidarity economy.

Its technology programs include Agroecology, Basic Education, Community Social Promotion, and Cultural Management. The Basic Education program offers pathways in community education and education and interculturality. Cultural Management prepares students to use technological tools to plan, organize, promote, and evaluate cultural projects and activities.