Alcobendas (Madrid): ‘Technology that saves lives, cooperation that transforms’

Alcobendas (Madrid, Spain) hosted a conference on development cooperation on October 29, 2025. The seminar, organized by the City Council, featured experts, volunteers, municipal officials, and musical performances.

Mayor Rocío García Alcántara and Councilor for Cooperation Cristina Capdevila expressed their support for cooperation initiatives.

Pablo Sánchez Bergasa (“Medicine Open to the World”) explained that he has manufactured hundreds of incubators for babies—destined for the developing world—which are produced at the Salesian vocational training center in Pamplona. Pablo received the 2025 Princess of Girona Award for this project.

Maribel Alañón (Mirlo Association for Development, Humanism and Culture / PICM) emphasized the importance of coherence between social impact and economic sustainability. Maribel also spoke about the integration of technology and communication.

Javier Sota (Villanueva University) discussed the relationship between educational institutions and development cooperation, and the opportunities for young people. Macarena Morales (AYO Foundation) highlighted the importance of training at the local level.

Rafael Rodríguez-Ponga, president of PICM, stated that culture is fundamental for development. He stressed that the most cultured societies are the most developed.

This cooperation conference, held for the second time, is entitled “Innovating Together.” It took place at the Alcobendas Art Center “Alcalde García de Vinuesa.” More than 200 people attended.