The University of the Caribbean (UNICARIBE) proudly celebrates the selection of its student Saira Guerrero as the official representative of the Dominican Republic in Sfera Experience, the most important university competition of social innovation in Ibero-America.

Organized by the Camilo José Cela University of Spain, the event takes place in Buenos Aires, Argentina, from July 28 to August 2. This initiative brings together students committed to social change, sustainability and community development, providing a platform to present innovative solutions to current challenges in their home countries.

Saira Guerrero leads a team of four UNICARIBE students, accompanied by their tutor Julián Peña, director of the Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Management and Renewable Energy. The group will present a social project that proposes a platform to connect sustainable businesses with society, industry, academia and government. This initiative integrates environmental education, community empowerment and the use of appropriate technologies.

The proposal was selected for its transformative potential, technical feasibility and comprehensive approach, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This achievement highlights not only the student’s leadership, but also UNICARIBE’s commitment to higher education oriented to social and environmental impact.

“Participation in Sfera Experience strengthens the institutional capacities of Ibero-American universities in sustainability, territorial cooperation and educational transformation. This type of challenge-based training project provides students with real experiences of academic and cultural exchange. UNICARIBE is strengthening skills such as communication, collaboration, teamwork and leadership through co-curricular activities and international mobility programs. Competing with the best universities in Ibero-America in social innovation is a milestone that puts the Dominican Republic and UNICARIBE on the map of innovation with positive impact, aligning with the 2036 Goal announced by the Dominican Government,” said Professor Peña.

This year, Sfera Experience celebrates its fifth anniversary. Sixteen universities from 14 countries are participating in the current edition, presenting projects focused on renewable energies and environmental sustainability. The awards ceremony will be held on August 1 at the Universidad Austral in Argentina.

Author:
M. Julián Peña – Director of CAYEI Research Center / LIC. In Environmental Management and Renewable Energies.