With the purpose of strengthening learning through real experiences in the maritime and logistics sector, students of the Bachelor's Degree in Maritime and Port Administration of UMECIT, Santiago campus, carried out an academic tour to the province of Colón as part of the subject International Transport, under the guidance of the teacher Yilania Abrego.

The day included a visit to the Manzanillo SSA Marine International Terminal and the Agua Clara Visitor Center of the Panama Canal, where the students expanded their knowledge of port operations, international logistics and the strategic importance of Panama as a connectivity hub for world trade.

During the tour of the port terminal, they learned firsthand about container handling, ro-ro cargo, vessel control, and the technologies that optimize logistics operations. They also participated in a specialized presentation on the infrastructure, logistics platforms, operational statistics, and technological systems implemented by the company to ensure the efficiency and competitiveness of its services.

As part of the experience, they visited operational areas such as STS/ASC, FORESCAT and GATE VISION, spaces that allowed them to understand how innovation, automation and digital transformation contribute to the safety and productivity of the port industry.

The tour also included a visit to the Agua Clara Visitor Center and the Panama Canal locks, where the students observed the transit of ships and learned more about the strategic role this interoceanic waterway plays in international trade and the global economy.

In addition to strengthening skills in logistics, international transport and port administration, the activity made it possible to identify research opportunities related to operational efficiency, environmental sustainability and the incorporation of new technologies in the maritime sector, consolidating the integration between teaching, research and linkage with the productive environment.

With this type of initiative, UMECIT reaffirms its commitment to excellent training, based on experiential learning and bringing its students closer to real-world scenarios that strengthen their preparation to respond to the challenges of one of the most important industries for the economic development of Panama and the world.