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.”