As part of the recognition earned for winning first place in the 2026 ILAN University Innovation Awards, Zamorano University students Alejandra Rodríguez and Eilyn Wong participated in an academic tour of Israel, an international learning experience designed to strengthen their knowledge and skills in innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development.
The trip was the grand prize awarded to NutriCycle, the winning project of the 2026 ILAN University Innovation Awards, an initiative led by ILAN Guatemala in partnership with AgroHub, a project implemented by Zamorano University with the support of BID Lab. The project was recognized for developing an innovative solution that transforms swine manure into liquid biofertilizer, creating value from organic waste while reducing environmental impact and supporting more sustainable production systems.
During the tour, the students explored some of Israel’s leading innovation, entrepreneurship, and research ecosystems through visits to universities, research centers, business incubators, and technology companies. Their itinerary included Ben-Gurion University, Bar-Ilan University, the Technion, Colab Square, and OpenValley, where they learned how collaboration among academia, industry, and startups drives solutions with economic, social, and environmental impact. They also visited the Israel Aerospace Center, where they gained insight into advances in satellite technologies, communications, and digital systems, broadening their understanding of how science and technology can help address global challenges.
The tour also introduced the students to initiatives in the Negev Desert focused on agricultural production under arid conditions, efficient water management, protected agriculture, and renewable energy generation. These experiences demonstrated how innovation can serve as a powerful tool for addressing food security, climate adaptation, and the sustainable management of natural resources. In addition, the agenda included meetings aimed at exploring opportunities to connect with international innovation and knowledge networks.
The program also featured visits to some of Israel’s most significant historical and cultural landmarks, including Jerusalem, Tel Aviv-Jaffa, Caesarea, and the Dead Sea, as well as a protocol meeting with the President of Israel. These activities enriched the cultural and institutional dimensions of the visit while providing a broader understanding of the environment in which many of the country’s innovation initiatives have flourished.
The participation of Alejandra Rodríguez and Eilyn Wong reflects the shared commitment of Zamorano University, ILAN, and BID Lab to developing young talent and creating opportunities for high-potential students to engage in international learning experiences, expand their professional networks, and strengthen the skills needed to develop innovative solutions for the agri-food sector.
Through initiatives such as the ILAN University Innovation Awards, Zamorano University, together with its strategic partners, will continue fostering leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation as drivers of sustainable development and positive impact across the region.
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