ULusófona Students Visit the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB)

On 13 December 2024, a group of students from the Political Science and International Relations courses at Lusófona University participated in a study visit to the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) in Madrid. The activity was part of an ongoing project about the role of Portugal in International Financial Institutions (IFIs) and offered a unique experience of immersion in the IDB’s structures and initiatives.

During the visit, the students learned more about the Bank's operations, with a focus on IDB Invest, aimed at financing and supporting private investments in Latin America and the Caribbean, and IDB Lab, a platform dedicated to innovation and the development of technological and sustainable solutions for regional challenges. Additionally, they attended a workshop on career opportunities at the Inter-American Development Bank, which provided detailed information about the selection processes, the skills most valued by the institution, and how students can prepare for future applications.

The study visit was organised as part of a project on the role of Portugal in International Financial Institutions, coordinated by LusoGlobe - Lusófona Centre on Global Challenges. The findings of this research will be published in January 2025 in the LusoGlobe collection and made available via the ZENODO platform, ensuring open access through the European Union's OpenAIRE database.

This experience gave students direct contact with IDB specialists and an in-depth understanding of the projects and initiatives of this important international organisation. Bridging theory and practice, the visit highlighted the IDB's role on the global stage, emphasising the importance of innovation and cooperation for sustainable development.

Lusófona University and LusoGlobe remain committed to promoting enriching academic experiences, connecting their students to international institutions and practical realities that broaden their academic and professional perspectives.