Three IQS Service-Learning Projects at the 9th University and Development Cooperation Conference

On 28 November, IQS presented three outstanding projects at the 9th University and Development Cooperation Conference entitled “New scenarios and challenges,” held at the University of Alcalá. This event brought together academics, students, and professionals to discuss the transformative role of higher education within the context of international cooperation and sustainable development.

The three projects presented were carried out within the framework of the IQS service-learning project, which has been launched to promote innovative educational methodologies that promote learning through values, putting the excellence of our students at the service of the community and society.

1. “Drug analysis in the Cerrón Grande reservoir (El Salvador): Comparison between eras and risk assessment”
   Irene Romero Alfano, Violeta Chichique Martínez, Patricia O’Callaghan, Pol Domínguez García, and Cristian Gómez Canela.
2. “Coffee fermentation and quality: a scientific approach to support microproducers in Guatemala”
   Santiago Murillo, Anabella López, Margalida Artigues, Magda Faijes, Lourdes Margarit, Rosa Nomen, and Núria Agulló.
3. “Extraction and quantification of saponins from soapnuts for subsequent formulation in commercial soap”
   Kilian Marques, Clara García, Albert Durant, Marga Artigues, Lourdes Margarit, and Maria Auset.

These projects form part of the IQS Service-Learning programme, an educational methodology that combines academic training and community service. Its objective is to involve students in initiatives boasting a real social impact by promoting the values of cooperation, sustainability, and social justice.

IQS proudly forms part of the UNIACT project (Universities in Action for Transformative Cooperation), led by the University of Girona and supported by the Catalan Department of Research and Universities and the Catalan Agency for Development Cooperation (ACCD). This project unites twelve Catalan universities and deploys seven key actions for 2024 and 2025, aimed at strengthening university cooperation in global education, knowledge transfer, and raising awareness.

The central mission of the UNIACT initiative is to promote the role of universities in teaching, research, and knowledge transfer linked to global development. Its objectives include promoting critical thinking, strengthening collaboration with NGOs and social movements, and evaluating new tools for academic recognition in emergency contexts.

The event at the University of Alcalá underscored the importance of initiatives such as these to build an academic community committed to social transformation and fighting for a more equitable world. The projects presented by IQS are a clear example of how academic excellence can be integrated with humanitarian values to generate a positive and lasting impact on the world.