IPN Marks 90 Years as a Pillar of Scientific and Technological Education in Mexico

● On January 1, 1936, General Lázaro Cárdenas issued the decree that created the Instituto Politécnico Nacional, an educational pillar that supports flagship Federal Government programs

● Today, IPN operates 93 academic units across 24 states and Mexico City, covering 75 percent of the national territory

On January 1, 1936, by decree of General Lázaro Cárdenas del Río, the Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN) was founded. Ninety years later, it stands as one of Mexico’s most emblematic institutions of higher education and a cornerstone of the country’s public education system, distinguished by its strong social commitment and its capacity to respond to national challenges.

As it commemorates its 90th anniversary, the IPN reaffirms its role as a strategic institution for Mexico, aligned with the educational policy of President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, the guidelines established by the Secretary of Public Education, Mario Delgado Carrillo, and the leadership of its Director General, Dr. Arturo Reyes Sandoval.

Over the course of nine decades, the IPN has established a robust academic structure comprising 93 academic units, located in 24 states and Mexico City, which enables the Institute to fulfill its social mission across 75 percent of the country’s territory.

Today, the IPN plays a leading role in strategic projects promoted by the administration of President Claudia Sheinbaum, including the development of Mexico’s first electric vehicle, Olinia; the Kutsari Project, aimed at establishing the National Semiconductor Design Center; and the Ixtli Satellite Mission, which seeks to deploy a constellation of low-Earth-orbit satellites for national territory observation.

Under the leadership of Dr. Arturo Reyes Sandoval, one of the Institute’s strategic priorities has been internationalization, focused on positioning IPN talent on the global stage while strengthening student mobility and academic collaboration with world-renowned universities and research centers.

The IPN also offers a comprehensive educational support system that includes financial, athletic, and academic excellence scholarships, promoting equity in access, student retention, and social mobility. These initiatives reflect the Institute’s commitment to the holistic development of students, who are prepared to meet global challenges while safeguarding their well-being.

The achievements attained over 90 years reflect a sustained commitment to innovation, scientific research, and engagement with the productive and social sectors, generating a direct impact on the country’s growth and well-being.

Through these efforts, the IPN has consolidated its position as a key contributor to knowledge creation in Mexico, fostering scientific and technological solutions with tangible social impact.

On its 90th anniversary, the Instituto Politécnico Nacional reaffirms its historic mission to serve Mexico and to continue strengthening public education, science, and technology as driving forces of national development and social well-being.

For more information, visit www.ipn.mx