Strengthening Health Equity and STEM in Panama: Insights from an International Summit
Recently, Florida State University’s Center of Population Sciences for Health Equity (CPSHE) organized the International Health Equity and STEM Research Summit in Panama to cultivate collaboration among researchers, educators, and policymakers from both Panama and the United States. This significant event took place from October 14-18 at the National Secretariat of Science, Technology, and Innovation (SENACYT) within the City of Knowledge in Panama City.
This summit emphasized FSU’s valuable partnerships with regional institutions like INDICASAT-AIP’s Institute for Scientific Research and High Technology Services as well as other health-focused organizations such as the Gorgas Memorial Institute for Health Studies. The gathering aimed to establish a comprehensive global research network dedicated to promoting health equity, innovation in STEM disciplines, and enriching educational practices.
A Collective Vision for Sustainable Progress
The summit sought to address pressing issues by encouraging international collaboration focused on sustainable solutions that resonate not just within Panama but extend globally. By leveraging cross-cultural initiatives, mentorship opportunities, and engaging students actively in various projects—including pilot studies and grant efforts—the event established a pathway for impactful community programs.
“Collaboration is essential for effecting real change,” noted Florida State University President Richard McCullough. “Our deep-rooted connection with Panama spans over six decades; this summit reflects our enduring commitment to elevate both international education standards and address global public health challenges effectively.”
The Foundation of Long-Standing Relationships
Holding historical significance since its establishment over 67 years ago through an agreement with U.S. Armed Forces education initiatives within the former Canal Zone area—FSU became officially degree-granting by 1967. In 2009 it relocated to its current site at City of Knowledge; subsequent authorization allowed it to confer master’s degrees starting in 2014 under its International Programs umbrella.
This recent summit exemplified constructive connections forged between leaders from various participating institutions across both nations toward mutually beneficial goals regarding health equity research—commented Carlos Langoni, rector at FSU Panama.
The success of this summit drew heavily upon strong collaborative relationships cultivated by Eugenia Flores Millender—a key co-director at CPSHE—and distinguished Panamanian researchers like Gabrielle Britton from INDICASAT-AIP’s Center for Neuroscience along with Amanda Gabster from Gorgas Memorial Institute specializing in HIV epidemiology. Their joint efforts were pivotal towards fostering a more robust intercontinental research network while reinforcing existing professional ties that continue progressing over time.
A Personal Mission Transformed into Partnership
Eugenia Flores Millender has cherished her roots back home despite departing at age twelve; motivated by multiple experiences throughout her career history including forming bridges between FSU’s academic community alongside local researchers—her quest took form through tighter links enabling collaborative investigations into significant scientific features emerging throughout fields prevalent across Panamanian environments since she recognized strategic alliances offered invaluable support avenues attracting crucial funding possibilities—all bolstering active impactful projects aimed towards advancing health sector improvements while simultaneously addressing essential concerns surrounding social wellness disparities present today Universities must innovate constantly!
“The strength derived from this singular opportunity presents itself primarily through establishing robust longitudinal connections transcending geographic barriers—a collective effort we’ve undertaken collaboratively enables us tackle emergent global crises leveraging our shared expertise toward equitable outcomes,” stated Millender.”
When Entertainment Takes Over: The Distortion of Public Discourse