From AmicsUAB we deeply mourn the passing of Carles Solà i Ferrando. Born in Xàtiva in 1945 and a resident of Sant Cugat del Vallès, Carles Solà leaves behind an indelible legacy of intellectual rigour, outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to democratic and Catalanist ideals.
Carles Solà is perhaps the clearest example of how the greatest asset of any university institution is its people — its “human capital”. For decades, the UAB provided the ideal human and scientific environment for Carles Solà to fully develop his extraordinary creative drive. In turn, the excellence that defines the UAB today cannot be understood without the work and invaluable contributions of figures such as Carles Solà.
A graduate and PhD in Chemical Sciences from the University of Valencia, he joined the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona back in 1978, where he became Professor of Chemical Engineering and promoted the development of Biotechnology studies, pioneering in Spain. First as Vice-Rector for Research and later as Rector (1994–2002), he led the UAB through a major qualitative leap forward. During his tenure, the School of Engineering, the Doctoral School, ICTA and the Port d’Informació Científica were created. The University also began its transition towards the European Higher Education Area. The campus itself underwent a profound transformation, ultimately becoming the “city of knowledge” it is today. In keeping with the distinctive campus model that characterises the UAB, the Plaça Cívica was built, together with the exemplary building housing the Communication Library. But perhaps the most enduring symbol associated with his legacy is the installation of Andreu Alfaro’s iconic four columns. This monumental sculpture beside the B-30 motorway has become a universally recognised icon of the UAB and an enduring, serene and imposing symbol of Catalan identity.
A historic figure in left-wing, pro-independence Valencian political thought, he played a key role in promoting the Xarxa Vives d’Universitats and the ACUP. After completing his term as Rector, he joined the Catalanist and left-wing government led by Pasqual Maragall as Minister for Universities, Research and the Information Society (2003–2006). During his term in office, he helped improve university funding and promoted the establishment of the .CAT domain. There is little doubt that, with a life and career such as his, Josep Pla would have placed him among his homenots — one of those remarkable figures of his time. An homenot heir to the Valencian brilliance of Joan Fuster.
In a particularly fitting tribute, Rector Javier Lafuente described the much-loved Carles Solà as a “teacher, light, compass and companion”. As a former student and departmental colleague, Lafuente was also able to highlight his humanity: that of a close friend and colleague who was warm, engaging, humorous
Rest in peace, dear friend Carles Solà
Article by Enric Marín Otto, member of the Board of Directors of AmicsUAB and professor emeritus at the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona
