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PUERTO RICO Hi-Tech Learning Embracing innovation to focus on a knowledge based economy for the future. ith a strategic location in the heart of the Caribbean and a modern infrastructure, Puerto Rico has a growing reputation as a leading investment destination and innovation platform. With a young and ambitious population of four million, the island nation’s key sectors include the manufacturing of pharmaceutical and medical devices, food processing, and tourism. As a U.S. territory, Puerto Rican products are not subject to U.S. duties or quotas. Heavy investment in a new marine port and upgrades at its main airport will transform the country into a commercial hub. A leading exporter of talent, both the private and public sectors are working hard to secure a bright future for the country through a focus on better knowledge, privatization, and improved efficiencies.
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“Our educational system was developed to produce graduates for multinational enterprises.” Marilina Lucca Wayland, Chancellor, Inter American University of Puerto Rico, Metropolitan Campus
As such the government is transforming the industrial based economy through the dual approach of a highly educated workforce and a focus on scientific and technology research and development (R&D). “In terms of a knowledge based economy, we are not only talking the talk, but walking the walk by investing heavily in education and education related facilities,” says Secretary of State, Kenneth McClintock. “Puerto Rico boasts world class manufacturing facilities and a very loyal workforce. We are looking for an integrated, vertical operation where businesses can do R&D relatively inexpensively because of low labor costs and excellent scientific knowledge.”
Inter American University of Puerto Rico - Bayamón Campus.
www.bc.inter.edu
That vision is shared by Carlos Chardon, Secretary of Education, who is overseeing major changes in the nation’s education system as it looks to evolve and innovate. “We are investing more than U.S.$150 million next year in retraining which will really shake the system,” he states. “Our focus for the next five years is on science, math, English, and Spanish, which are the skills needed to compete in today’s globalized economy.” Helping the island achieve this goal is the Inter American University of P.R., Metropolitan Campus. Part of the Inter American University System, the university promotes a more flexible and technological way of learning. The campus recently teamed up with Microsoft to establish a hi-tech innovation center. “Our educational system was developed to produce graduates for multinational enterprises,” says chancellor Marilina Lucca Wayland. A leading exponent of science and technology, Inter American University of P.R., Bayamón Campus offers specialist courses in biology, biotechnology, environmental sciences, and aviation, among others. Headed by chancellor Juan Martínez, the university is looking for foreign investors to help it to create more world class facilities, particularly in research fields.
Nurturing leaders and entrepreneurs for the world
www.metro.inter.edu www.businessfocus.org.uk