The book “History of the Azuay Industry” was presented at the University of Azuay
On March 12, the University of Azuay and its Publishing House presented the book: “History of the Azuay Industry”, an event aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.
The event was attended by authorities, teachers, representatives of the Chambers of Commerce, Industry and the Chamber of Small Industry of Azuay; administrative staff and students of our university community, authors, contributors of the magazine, businessmen and the general public.
This book invites us to explore the history of the entrepreneurial spirit of Cuenca and Azuay. Its pages highlight how, from ancient times to the present day, the work, creativity, and perseverance of its people have driven the artisanal and industrial development of the region. A testament to the effort and identity of our people.
The meeting began with remarks from Francisco Salgado, rector of the University of Azuay, who emphasized the importance of analyzing the city's industrial past to shape its future. "Presenting a book on the history of industry also allows us to envision the future we want," he noted.
Salgado also emphasized the need to strengthen the link between academia and the productive sector. “The combined efforts of universities and industry, of knowledge and entrepreneurship, are fundamental to building the future we all want,” he stated.
For his part, historian Juan Cordero Íñiguez, author of the work, noted that entrepreneurial spirit has been a historical characteristic of the city. He explained that throughout the centuries, Cuenca has developed productive activities that reflect the initiative of its people. “Our history allows us to see the work of men and women dedicated to industrious tasks and driving innovation in the city,” he stated.
Speaking on behalf of industry promoters in Cuenca, Carlos Crespo Seminario emphasized the importance of the work as a contribution to the understanding of the productive sector. “It is the first in-depth and comprehensive publication on the history of industrial development and constitutes a crucial contribution to understanding our current situation,” he stated.
Crespo also emphasized that the city's growth has been the result of the collective effort of various sectors. "If the problem affects everyone, the solution must too," he stated, referring to the need for collaboration among businesses, academia, authorities, and citizens.
The dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology and author of the work, Andrés López Hidalgo, explained that the book seeks to document the process by which the industry was consolidated in the region. “The main objective was to leave a written document as a legacy for new generations about how our society was built,” he stated.
López also emphasized that understanding the past is key to shaping the future. “To understand who we are today, it is essential to look back, to the history that guides us on what we must preserve and what we must transform,” he stated.
The work brings together historical research, business testimonies and analysis of regional productive development, with the purpose of becoming a reference for understanding the role of industry in the identity and progress of Azuay.
Download the book at the following link link.
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