The programme, launched by the university's Office of International Affairs and Faculty of Philosophy and Humanities, aims to introduce students and university staff to new languages and cultures.
The first edition includes a free course, "Introduction to Croatian Language: Approaches Through Culture," running from 11 August to 6 October. It is taught by Croatian language and literature lecturer Lucija Bojkić and covers basic pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar and conversation through everyday situations, alongside Croatian history, literature, cultural heritage and traditions.
The programme also includes role-playing, group work and practical exercises, as well as exploring links between Croatia and Chile through geographical, cultural and artistic themes.
Around 200,000 people of Croatian descent live in Chile, according to the Office for Croats Abroad. Larger-scale Croatian immigration began in the late 19th century and continued through the 20th century for economic and political reasons.
The Faculty of Philosophy and Humanities offers courses in more than 16 languages in addition to Spanish.
University of Chile officials said the initiative was part of efforts to make internationalisation more accessible across the university community and highlighted the importance of world languages and cultures.