The National University of Asunción (UNA) successfully kicked off its 19th Congress of Young Researchers and Innovators (JJI+i-UNA). This year, for the first time, the theme of 'Innovation' was added, and a total of 252 academic papers were submitted from various faculties, institutes, and branches within the university, demonstrating a high level of student participation. The event will be held until August 7 at the San Lorenzo campus, focusing on showcasing the scientific talent and creativity of students for knowledge creation and social change.

Young Researchers Shine in Diverse Fields

A total of 252 studies were received across 7 fields for the congress, organized by the General Directorate of Research and Science and Technology (DGICT-UNA). Social Sciences (91 submissions), Medicine and Health Sciences (58 submissions), and Engineering and Technology (29 submissions) stood out, and 9 projects were submitted in the newly established Innovation field this year, raising expectations for new initiatives.

Submissions by Field:

Social Sciences: 91 submissions
Medicine and Health Sciences: 58 submissions
Engineering and Technology: 29 submissions
Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences: 26 submissions
Natural Sciences: 23 submissions
Arts and Humanities: 16 submissions
Innovation: 9 submissions
Efforts to encourage the participation of students from regional campuses were also notable at this event. Through 14 online workshops and promotional activities, 586 students participated, and 51 of these studies were submitted from UNA's regional campuses, highlighting the nationwide spread and decentralization of academic activities.

A Stepping Stone to International Congresses

All submitted studies undergo a strict review by a committee of professors. Outstanding projects that pass this review will be eligible to participate as UNA representatives in the 32nd Association of Montevideo Group Universities (AUGM) Young Researchers Congress, to be held in November at the National University of Tucumán in Argentina. This will be an important opportunity for students to present their research achievements on an international stage.

The opening ceremony was held at the San Lorenzo campus and was attended by university officials and representatives from science and technology-related institutions. A special panel discussion on the theme of innovation was a highlight. Jenny Marín, Director of Innovation and Development at the National Council of Science and Technology (Conacyt), and Jaime Jara, an innovation consultant, participated in the discussion representing the public and private sectors, respectively, with Héctor Nakayama, Director-General of DGICT-UNA, serving as the moderator.

Since its inception in 2007, JJI-UNA has become an important venue for discovering scientific talent. To date, more than 3,000 young researchers have participated in this event, achieving remarkable results, including winning over 50 international awards. This congress is also expected to showcase the activities of the young talent who will lead the future of science.