UPANA partners with IGSS for student training and improved healthcare in Guatemala

The Universidad Panamericana (UPANA) and the Guatemalan Social Security Institute (IGSS) have signed an inter-institutional cooperation agreement aimed at improving academic training and scientific research in health and social security in Guatemala.

Through this partnership, UPANA students in Medicine, Dentistry, and Nursing will be able to complete their professional internships at IGSS facilities. This arrangement is intended to combine theoretical knowledge with practical experience within Guatemala’s social security system.

The agreement includes the implementation of training programs for both UPANA students and IGSS workers. The objective is to support the development of human resources in the healthcare sector.

César Augusto Custodio Cobar, Administrative Vice-Rector of UPANA, stated: “Este convenio representa una gran oportunidad para el país, ya que nos permite como institución de educación superior poner al servicio del IGSS a estudiantes formados con altos estándares de calidad, excelencia académica y un profundo espíritu de servicio. Son jóvenes preparados para aportar más allá de lo tradicional en las áreas de medicina, odontología y enfermería, contribuyendo al trabajo de una institución comprometida con la atención y el bienestar de la población guatemalteca.”

Custodio Cobar added: “Con esta alianza contribuiremos juntos a un espacio de formación y crecimiento, donde tanto los estudiantes como los trabajadores del IGSS puedan fortalecer sus capacidades, compartir conocimientos y crecer profesionalmente en beneficio de la salud de los guatemaltecos.”

Gary Reyes, head of the Department of Training and Development at IGSS, also emphasized the mutual benefits: “Con esta alianza contribuiremos juntos a un espacio de formación y crecimiento, donde tanto los estudiantes como los trabajadores del IGSS puedan fortalecer sus capacidades, compartir conocimientos y crecer profesionalmente en beneficio de la salud de los guatemaltecos.”

According to UPANA officials, this collaboration underlines the university’s commitment to quality education that prepares professionals to contribute positively to society. The agreement is expected to help create a more efficient and humane health system by building links between academic learning and real-world healthcare practice.

UPANA has indicated it will continue seeking strategic partnerships to support national development by preparing professionals who can make meaningful contributions.