Cooperation is also built in classrooms and laboratories and through the experience of those who turn knowledge into aid. Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia (UCAM) has received the Region of Murcia International Cooperation Agent Award for its voluntary work and for promoting projects in Latin America and Africa, mobilising its professionals, academic expertise and resources to address specific social and healthcare needs. 

Antonio Alcaraz, UCAM Vice-Rector of University Extension, received the award from Marcos Ortuño, Regional Minister of the Presidency, Youth, Foreign Affairs and Emergencies, at a ceremony that also recognised the contribution made to international cooperation by professionals, volunteers and organisations from different areas of the Region of Murcia.

Following the presentation, Alcaraz highlighted the reach of the projects currently run by the University, particularly in Cuba, ‘where we have given more than 3,000 young people the opportunity to find a job and transform their lives’, and in the Peruvian Amazon, ‘where we have encountered an urgent social and healthcare situation, a reality shared by many regions of the world that we often overlook, but which must be brought to light’, he said.

The Vice-Rector also recalled the work carried out in Africa by teaching staff from different UCAM faculties, who have travelled to countries such as Uganda to collaborate on health-related projects.

A region committed to solidarity

This year’s edition also recognised people and organisations whose work reflects different forms of cooperation and service to others. Among them were César Claros, firefighter and president of Bomberos por Bomberos, and Cirugía Solidaria, organisations with which UCAM collaborates, notably through the intervention in Venezuela following this summer’s earthquakes and the promotion of activities through the International Chair of Medicine and Humanitarian Surgery. 

The International Development Cooperation Awards also recognised Dr José Gil with the Aid Worker Award, while the Commitment Award was presented to Jorge Martínez, graphic designer and advertising professional.