University Medicinal Garden: inaugural event
On June 20, the University of Azuay inaugurated the University Medicinal Garden, an event in line with the Sustainable Development Goals.
The event was attended by authorities, teachers and administrative staff from our university community and the general public.
The University Medicinal Garden is a space designed for research, teaching, and the conservation of species with medicinal therapeutic value. This project integrates ancestral knowledge with contemporary science, strengthening the institutional commitment to health, sustainability, and comprehensive education.
The event began with remarks from Francisco Salgado, rector of the University of Azuay, who mentioned that the garden is a space designed to foster encounters with nature, science, and the essence of life. He noted that the garden's name is closely related to the concept of a botanical garden, as a place where one can discover the wonder of life and admire it with one's own eyes.
Antonio Crespo, a research professor at our institution, addressed the audience, emphasizing that this is a joint effort between several departments at the University. He noted that medicine is about finding answers in the environment, and that traditional and ancestral medicine is of fundamental importance. He hopes this space will be used for future research that strengthens knowledge and the connection with ancestral medicinal practices.
Andrés Abad, an anthropologist and professor at our university community, noted in his speech that the University of Azuay is increasingly aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. He emphasized that this garden invites us to learn and contemplate, in a special way, the recovery of nature and the medicinal use of plants. He added that this space invites a necessary reflection on the relationship between nature and culture.
Raffaella Ansaloni, Vice-Rector for Research at the University of Azuay, expressed her gratitude to all those who made this project possible, acknowledging their commitment and dedication. She noted that this space will undoubtedly be of great use and contribution to the community and emphasized that the project represents a valuable union between science, spirit, and heart.
After the presentations, attendees were able to tour the Medicinal Garden and learn about the variety of plants it contains.
