Study Visit University of Alicante

The University of Alicante recently welcomed the delegation of academic and business partners from the SLEEK project, among which we can find rectors, professors and two experts from an Innovation Hub. This visit entailed the opportunity of learning and sharing best practices in fostering entrepreneurship.

From 8th to 9th 2025, a group of representatives from the partner institutions attended several presentations led by specialists from the University of Alicante (UA) on the subject, focusing on entrepreneurial education and innovation. The Study Visit began with a round table titled “Innovation in Entrepreneurship Education”, featuring contributions from Eduardo Sánchez and Antonio Antón (UA), Clarissa Maierhofer (FHJ), and Samppa Kamara (TUOS). 

On May 8th, participants explored UA’s institutional approach to supporting entrepreneurship through a series of sessions. Loren Monteagudo, from UA’s Technology Transfer Office, introduced the institutional programme UA:emprende, explaining how it promotes an entrepreneurial culture and supports the development of innovative business ideas. Rafael Lafont and Virginia Payá, from the University-Enterprise Foundation (FUNDEUN), together with Enric Bas from FUTURLAB-UA, shared insights on how their respective institutions contribute to building entrepreneurial competencies among students and local businesses. The session concluded with Evaristo Colomina and Javier Martínez (UA), who presented practical strategies for enhancing entrepreneurial skills among university students through teaching.

To complement the academic agenda, the day concluded with a cultural activity, a guided visit to Santa Bárbara Castle, offering participants a glimpse into Alicante’s rich history and a valuable opportunity to connect in a relaxed and informal environment.

The visit culminated on May 9th with a visit to the Alicante Science Park. Participants were welcomed by Esteban Pelayo, CEO of the Park, and Mar Cervera from the International Relations team, who guided them through the park's innovation ecosystem. This was followed by presentations from two dynamic startups: Hydros Power, represented by Co-CEOs Pablo J. Garzo and Iván Navalón, and Shintek, presented by its Co-Founder and CEO, Juan Germán Tapia. Both companies provided valuable insights into the journey from the initial idea to the market, and highlighted how the science Park has helped them.

This Study Visit provided a rich learning experience for all attendees, strengthening institutional ties and laying the foundation for collaboration in developing entrepreneurial pedagogy and skills across Sierra Leone.