Sophia, a humanoid robot developed by Hanson Robotics, visited Francisco Marroquín University (UFM) in Guatemala on September 5, 2025. The event included Sophia's creator David Hanson, Janma Bardi—founder of the Volcano Innovation Summit—and Michel Caputi, digital alliances manager at Banco Industrial.
Sophia is known for integrating science, engineering, and art. She represents advancements in artificial intelligence and robotics and serves as a platform for ongoing research in these fields.
During a conversation with Sophia at UFM, David Hanson said: "Your students will be the next creators of the future." He discussed consciousness and the philosophy behind robotics. Hanson also highlighted more accessible versions of Sophia’s technology designed for educational purposes and children.
Mónica de Zelaya, dean of the Faculty of Economic Sciences at UFM, stated: "I love when students come to me and say I have an idea because everything starts with an idea and ideas arise from needs and desires. That is why we need institutions that do not stop entrepreneurs and innovators; we need the kind of freedom that makes it possible for people like David Hanson to find ways to connect artificial intelligence with humans so they can interact on levels that were once science fiction."
Before Sophia's appearance, Janma Bardi addressed attendees: "Prosperity is generated by individuals with solid principles, passionate spirits, and big dreams who enjoy an environment of freedom. Today we are going to witness what human talent can create. Although we will see how technology and artificial intelligence are advancing rapidly, let us remember that it is human capacity and individual action that move the world. At Volcano Innovation Summit we are a purpose-driven organization; through collaboration with UFM, we wanted to inspire you to dream, encouraged by Sophia’s visit."
Michel Caputi from Banco Industrial commented: "At Banco Industrial we have a huge commitment to collaborate with partners such as Francisco Marroquín University and other organizations and universities as global as MIT in order to—through education and innovation—strengthen their capabilities in artificial intelligence. We are convinced that increasingly AI will be part of our daily lives."
After Sophia’s presentation at UFM, university members and guests took photos with her. Students from Business Engineering introduced the speakers during the event.
The meeting highlighted innovation and freedom as key drivers for shaping the future.
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