Fundación Universitaria María Cano, Popayán campus, hosted a new milestone in the consolidation of collaborative work in science, technology, and innovation in the department, by serving as host of the sixth session of the Cauca Research Roundtable, a strategic platform that brings together higher education institutions across the region. During the session, which included the participation of academic and institutional representatives, key topics were addressed to strengthen research with a territorial approach. Interinstitutional collaboration was highlighted as a central driver for developing solutions to social, environmental, and productive challenges in Cauca.

One of the most significant outcomes was the consolidation of a proposal for a research seedbed seminar, an initiative designed to enhance students’ research capacities through an innovative, flexible, and interinstitutional training model. This process, set to begin in May, will also promote academic mobility and collaborative work among regional institutions. In addition, progress was made in defining the strategic direction of the Roundtable, emphasizing the importance of building an articulated system of capabilities in science, technology, and innovation (STI). This approach aims to optimize resources, strengthen partnerships, and develop joint projects for national and international funding opportunities.

As part of the agenda, actions were also established for the organization of “Science in the Park 2026,” one of the region’s most significant events for public engagement with science, reaffirming the commitment of participating institutions to knowledge dissemination and community connection. Through initiatives like this, Fundación Universitaria María Cano reinforces its leadership in regional academic collaboration, its commitment to research and human talent development, and its role in building collaborative networks that contribute to the sustainable development of Cauca.

The Cauca Research Roundtable continues to position itself as a key reference for academic integration, promoting a shared agenda that recognizes research as a driver of development and well-being in the region.

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