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A milestone for innovation with #SelloUnicaucano: Minciencias recognizes CDT Vial...

A milestone for innovation with #SelloUnicaucano: Minciencias recognizes CDT Vial as a ‘Technological Development Center’

30 April, 2026

The CDT Vial of the University of Cauca has been officially recognized by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (Minciencias) as a Technological Development Center, an achievement that not only validates its commitment to applied research, but also sets a new standard for innovation in Colombia’s road infrastructure. Through Resolution No. 0088 of February 17, 2026, and for a period of one year, this ministry acknowledges its scientific and technological contributions to the sustainable improvement of tertiary roads in the department of Cauca.

For this house of thought that is #HeritageOfAll, the recognition of the CDT Vial as a Technological Development Center represents a milestone for applied research in road infrastructure in southwestern Colombia and the country, as it validates its technical, scientific, and organizational capacities as an actor within the National System of Science, Technology, and Innovation. In addition, the resolution issued by the Vice Ministry of Knowledge, Innovation, and Productivity confirms that the Center meets the highest standards in governance, specialized human talent, R&D&I outcomes, and infrastructure for project development. For this reason, the University of Cauca celebrates this achievement as part of the institutional goals that are now becoming a reality.

In this regard, Dr. Jaime Rafael Obando, director of the CDT Vial, stated: “This recognition represents one of the most significant milestones of the University’s Research System, as it is the first Technological Development Center recognized by the Ministry. Likewise, it is the second in Cauca and the first of its kind in Colombia, which constitutes a highly important foundation that will allow the technological developments generated in applied research to be transformed into tangible applications needed by society, especially by the National Institute of Roads, with whom we work in coordination on issues related to regulation and the incorporation of new technologies, standards, manuals, and specifications.”

In this way, the CDT Vial joins the national network of accredited centers alongside entities such as CIDEI, CINTEL, CDT Creatic, ICIPC, and Octopus Force, organizations that promote innovation and regional development.

It is therefore clear that the Technological Development Center for Innovation in Road Infrastructure (CDT Vial) works to transform connectivity in Cauca through science and technologies applied to tertiary roads, which are essential for rural communities to access rights, opportunities, and development despite deep territorial challenges. This purpose is realized both through the execution of experimental road sections and the consolidation of a modern laboratory at the University of Cauca, where materials and innovative solutions are researched to build safer and more durable roads. At the same time, the Center promotes the training of human talent and the transfer of knowledge to institutions, companies, and communities, under a collaborative model between University – State – Business – Society. As a result of this interaction, technologies are generated and evidence-based decisions are made, contributing to closing historical gaps and improving the quality of life in remote areas of the department.

Beyond its technical achievements, this recognition highlights the interdisciplinary work of researchers, students, and professionals who have directed science toward solving the real needs of the territory. In the words of Dr. Francisco Pino, Vice-Rector for Research at the University of Cauca, “This recognition makes it possible to strengthen collaborative ties between the municipalities of Cauca and the University of Cauca, through the research group led by Professor Jaime Obando, articulating territorial needs with the knowledge and technical expertise of the specialized road infrastructure team. In this way, it will be possible to develop solutions that improve accessibility to the most remote regions, especially in a geography as complex as that of the department, thus contributing to improving the quality of life of its communities.”

Undoubtedly, this milestone not only marks the beginning of a new era for the CDT Vial, but also establishes a renewed commitment to innovation and the continuous improvement of infrastructure in Colombia. With this achievement, the University of Cauca reaffirms its commitment to sustainable development, relevant research, and the generation of opportunities for communities. As it approaches its bicentennial, this progress symbolizes the strengthening of a University that honors its history by transforming knowledge into real well-being for the territories, demonstrating that public education remains a driving force for equity, progress, and hope.