Variety and cultural differences were the main features of the 2nd "Event of Knowledge Exchange" organized by UPS and the Partners Worldwide International Organization, with the aim of generating a real exchange of knowledge, leading to mutual respect , appreciation and knowledge that generates progress.

The event, which was aimed at creating a link between research of medicinal plants and their application in the field of phyto- therapy and phyto- cosmetics, is part of the research and community involvement projects called " Plants from the Aguarongo Protected Forest and the production of phytoplants" conducted by professor Noemi Bottasso from the Environmental Engineering major.  As Jasmine Cazón,  co - coordinator of the project explains, the event seeks to open micro- enterprise opportunities for vulnerable groups, and therefore they held training sessions to exchange knowledge among scientists, researchers, professionals and people of traditional medicine. The meetings promoted partnership and encouraged social change and development.

The conference was attended by 40 women from different communities and nationalities from Esmeraldas , Azuay and Canar. They were organized in 4 different associations: la Asociación de Mujeres Mi Bello Producto, la Asociación de productores Mushuk Yuyay, el Colectivo de productoras agroecológicas Tierra Floreciente y la Corporación Política de Mujeres de Azuay.

On Saturday, March 19, they carried out activities aimed at empowering micro- enterprises , with the collaboration of the Business Administration major and Organización Cuenca Partners.

On Sunday, March 20, students from the natural resources biotechnology major helped with the training sessions which focused on the development of natural medicinal and cosmetic products, body lotions, facial creams, hand gels and essential oils. The workshop, led by Jasmine Cazón, was based on empowerment and essential to raise awareness of the group tools that can be used.

On Monday, March 21, they celebrated Paukar Raimy, an Andean festival of flowering, with the help of Mama Delfa , in charge of traditional medicine , and Dr. Milton Capon, clinical psychologist. The event ended with a celebration of the healing ritual and then a walk along the Archaeological Pumapungo Museum,