This article analyses the emergence and development of the Catedra de Lengua General in Charcas between 1583 and 1771. Initially, this colonial institution was part of an overall project of ecclesiastical reform aimed at strengthening the training of the clergy in native languages, controlling entry to the curates and doctrines, and safeguarding the Royal Patronage. In the Audiencia de Charcas, this perspective was taken up again, but, in the medium term, this institution was co-opted by the Jesuits who ran it until the expulsion of the Society. The Catedra trained clerics in Aimara and Quechua, which became the languages tested in the competitive examinations for curateships, although the learning of particular or mother tongues was also recommended for pastoral ministry. The expulsion of the Jesuits, the Castilianisation program and the reform of the San Francisco Xavier University led to the formal elimination of the Catedra de Lengua General.