The UMECIT's Santiago campus hosted a representative from COREDI Technological Institute in Antioquia, Colombia, to explore joint initiatives in academic training, research, entrepreneurship, and international mobility.

UMECIT, Santiago campus, received a visit from Master Adriana Giraldo, Academic and Project Director of the COREDI Technological Institute, a higher education institution located in Marinilla, Antioquia, Colombia, who participated in a working group with university teachers and directors to strengthen cooperation ties between both institutions.

During the meeting, strategies for academic articulation, research, internationalization, extension and entrepreneurship were discussed, with the purpose of identifying opportunities for collaboration that promote academic mobility, knowledge exchange and the development of joint projects.

One of the main topics discussed was strengthening classroom research through the participation of teachers and students in collaborative projects, the creation of academic products, and the integration of curricular experiences between the two institutions. The possibility of developing joint courses, especially in research methodology, was also raised.

Regarding internationalization, the importance of continuing to promote mirror classes was highlighted, a strategy that connects students and professors from different countries to share knowledge and academic experiences. Alternatives to expand mobility and strengthen cooperation through institutional agreements were also explored.

Entrepreneurship and innovation were also on the agenda. Opportunities were analyzed to link research with the needs of the agribusiness sector, promote business ideas, and explore the creation of an entrepreneurship lab that would contribute to knowledge transfer and the development of professional skills.

Additionally, it was proposed to establish approaches with the Colombian Network of Research Seedbeds (RedCOLSI), as well as to explore alternatives for professionalization and continued training that expand opportunities for academic development.

This working group made it possible to identify lines of action to continue strengthening the relationship between UMECIT and the COREDI Technological Institute, through initiatives that connect university education with research, innovation and the needs of the productive environment.

With these spaces for dialogue and cooperation, UMECIT continues to expand its international ties and promote opportunities for academic collaboration between Panama and Colombia.