RTI International, Yachay E.P. sign memorandum of understanding to strengthen knowledge economy in Ecuador

QUITO, Ecuador— RTI International signed a memorandum of understanding with Yachay E.P., an Ecuadorian public company, to strengthen the knowledge economy in Ecuador by promoting technology and knowledge exchange. 

Through the memorandum, RTI and Yachay E.P. will work together to stimulate and contribute to scientific research, technology and innovation in the country. 

"The partnership between RTI and Yachay E.P. presents many possibilities to boost the scientific environment in Ecuador and opportunities for Ecuadorians," said Paul Weisenfeld, vice president of global programs at RTI. "As the founding tenant of the Research Triangle Park, we are excited to share our knowledge and expertise to help Ecuador become a leader in research and development."

The partnership aims to promote the exchange of knowledge and technology in fields prioritized by Yachay E.P. and in which RTI specializes. Areas of interest include workforce development, renewable energy, biotechnology, nanotechnology, petro chemistry, and information and communication technologies. 

Through the memorandum, RTI and Yachay E.P. will develop specific projects to share management strategies and models of research, and partner to train Ecuadorian scientists, experts and professionals. The partnership will also support the exchange of experts.

Yachay E.P. was established by the Government of Ecuador (GoE) to lead the development and implementation of Yachay or "City of Knowledge" in which scientific and technological research generate knowledge-based economic development. The company also oversees a new public university, Yachay Tech, which trains professionals in science and innovation.