IPN and UNAM, working together for sustainability

Combining creativity, experience, and capabilities to address the climate emergency

Nestor Pinacho

In an atmosphere of cordiality and camaraderie, the cheers of ¡Huélum! and ¡Goya! echoed through the Council Hall of the Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN). This celebratory occasion, as highlighted by the General Director of IPN, Arturo Reyes Sandoval, marked the signing of a general collaboration agreement on sustainability, representing the first step towards a fruitful alliance with the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM).

Illustrating the deep connections between these institutions in the lives of many citizens, Reyes Sandoval shared that his grandfather was educated at UNAM and his parents graduated from IPN. "It is not just a pleasure but a responsibility to undertake all possible actions within our reach to bring together the two most important educational institutions in Mexico."

UNAM's rector, Leonardo Lomelí Vanegas, also shared personal anecdotes, recalling his familiarity with the Zacatenco area from his time at Preparatory School 9, evoking memories of that era. He emphasized that the academic, student, and administrative community of UNAM fully embraces its responsibility in the face of the climate emergency, offering their creativity, experience, and capabilities to educational institutions and society.

The head of UNAM expressed confidence that this agreement will be the first of many to drive Mexico's development at a strategic moment for creating a better country for future generations.

Yessica Gasca Castillo, IPN's Secretary of Innovation and Social Integration, underscored the significance of the collaboration agreement, describing it as “the continuation of a historic alliance between two fundamental pillars of Mexican society.”

Patricia Dolores Dávila Aranda, UNAM's Secretary General, stated, "There are so many things that unite us—work in different areas, experience, and shared paths. This is a starting point where both institutions come together amicably and respectfully for a joint effort."

The agreement aims to develop and implement research projects and academic programs focused on sustainability; promote academic mobility for faculty and students; and encourage the organization of conferences or symposia related to the topic.

Gaceta Politécnica #1799. (June 15th, 2024). IPN Imagen Institucional: Read the full magazine in Spanish here.