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-Editorial
The Imperial–Mexicali Binational Alliance (IMBA) convened its first meeting of the year on January 8 in Mexicali, marking the first session under the leadership of newly appointed Chairman Tim Kelley.
The meeting brought together local and regional representatives from both sides of the border to discuss a range of binational issues, including urban development, education, and transportation, with a focus on fostering collaboration and strengthening cross-border initiatives.
The meeting took place at Tu Parque Todos Somos Mexicali, Mayakhan, Residencial Mayakhan.
During the education segment, Grupo Educativo 16 de Septiembre, through its International Liaison Department, presented an extensive overview of its international activities for 2025.
The department highlighted ongoing efforts to maintain and expand partnerships with universities and organizations across North America, emphasizing academic collaboration, professional development, and the continuity of existing agreements.
Key international partnerships mentioned included the University of California San Diego, San Diego State University–Imperial Valley, Royal Roads University, the University of Arizona, Northern Arizona University, and the Regional Center for Border Health.
University representatives reported that in 2025, engineering students participated in a visit to UC San Diego facilities following prior virtual meetings, providing them with hands-on experience and strengthening cross-institutional ties. Workshops addressing adolescent decision-making and parental guidance were also conducted in collaboration with San Diego State University–Imperial Valley, held in November with sessions focused on promoting informed youth development.
In addition, they reported active cooperation with the Consulate of Mexico in Calexico, including participation in the “Mujer Emprende” event in Calipatria, a Facebook Live session as part of Binational Education Week, and a university fair hosted at the consulate. Plans for a tentative visit to Yuma, Arizona, in February were shared, aimed at exploring hospital partnerships for nursing students’ observational experiences and further strengthening professional opportunities for students in healthcare and engineering programs.
It was also highlighted that faculty involvement in initiatives associated with the Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME) network. Several faculty proposals were accepted for participation in the PRME Latin America and Caribbean Meeting 2025, supporting international academic exchange and professional development.
Additionally, in April 2025, Northern Arizona University hosted the 7th Annual Community Forum at the Regional Center for Border Health Medical Mall in San Luis, Arizona, focusing on the development of a diverse healthcare workforce—a key objective shared with regional partners.