The economics major and the master’s degree program in Business administration in our branch campus in Cuenca, along with Universidad de Cuenca the Instituto Superior Tecnológico de la Economía Social, Popular y Solidaria (ISTEPS) held the forum: "Public Integrity Law: A Talk on the Transformation of Credit Unions into Banks." This forum was attended by a large number of social organizations, associations, foundations, agricultural producers, and members of the Popular and Solidarity Economy from the different cantons of Azuay.

The event brought together experts from the academic, legal, and economic fields, who discussed the challenges and opportunities of the transformation of credit unions into banks in the context of the new legal regulations. This forum analyzed aspects related to the regulation, sustainability, and governance of these entities, as well as their role in the country's economic and social development.

After an analysis that addressed the origins of the credit union system , its purpose, the impact it has had on the region, especially in rural areas, and some legal implications; a public statement was issued to establish technical, social, and economic recommendations, which included: the need to create a subordinated investment fund that contributes to capitalization; the need to strengthen the technical competencies and capabilities of regulatory and oversight bodies for the popular and solidarity economy; the design of differentiated regulations that adapt to the dynamics of this sector; and the need to strengthen the safety network of the entire financial system, not just the credit union system.

This forum represents UPS's commitment to the collective construction of knowledge and the promotion of inclusive public policies that foster equitable and sustainable economic development.