Colombia advances science, technology, and connectivity initiatives

Colombia is advancing several science, technology, and connectivity initiatives across various sectors. In Cundinamarca, the Departmental Council of Science, Technology, and Innovation (CODECTI) has defined new strategic lines for agriculture, health, and data science, including a 10-year project portfolio and a hospital data science pilot.

Following a recent earthquake, the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation is working with the Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira to utilize science and innovation for regional reconstruction. Efforts include developing a regional seismic network and using biotechnology for agro-industrial recovery. Simultaneously, the Ministry of ICT is strengthening connectivity in 380 rural schools across Chocó, Quindío, Risaralda, and Valle del Cauca, providing increased speeds and satellite kits to support disaster recovery and communication.

In the educational sector, the ITLA participated in discussions regarding the digital transformation of higher education, while experts emphasize the need for a national policy to transition Colombia toward a knowledge-based economy to drive productivity and innovation.