SD-USA Masterclass: Fundamentals and Practice of Science Diplomacy

We continue our historic celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States of America with the presentation of our exclusive series of keynote lectures: the Masterclass Series by Fulbright. This initiative takes advantage of the distinguished presence of U.S. Specialists and U.S. Scholars who are currently carrying out scientific and academic projects in the country, transforming their stays into open forums for knowledge transfer, dialogue, and bilateral cooperation.

This series of masterclasses is specifically designed for educators, researchers, and professionals early in their careers who are looking to connect with global innovation networks and strengthen their key skills for regional development.

Session 2: Fundamentals and Practice of Science Diplomacy

The session will be broadcast live on August 25, 2026, thanks to the Fulbright U.S. Specialist Program.

This master class will explore the processes of institutional consolidation, public order, and governance as fundamental pillars of democratic life. Drawing on comparative analyses of the United States and Colombia, it will examine how states build legitimacy, manage transitions toward the rule of law, and design public policies that reach the most vulnerable communities.

Event Details

  • Date: August 25, 2026
  • Time: 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Colombia Time)
  • Language: Spanish
  • Format: Online (Live masterclass)
  • Admission: Free
  • Limited spots: 50
  • Registration link: Sign up here for the Zoom session
  • Certificate type: Digital Badge

Guest Expert Profile

Dr. Cumba García, a 2025 Fulbright U.S. Specialist, is an expert in science diplomacy, immunology, public health, and biomedical sciences, with more than 15 years of experience in the academic, private, and government sectors. She is also an expert in science policy and evidence-based policymaking, with experience in global health issues, biomedical research, and international relations. She is the founder and a member of the Science Diplomacy Network in Latin America and the Caribbean (DiploCientifica).

Certification and Skills to Develop

For this first session, 30 exclusive spots will be available to earn an official certification in the form of a Digital Badge. This badge will validate your skills among your academic peers and professionals in the global market.

Intended for:

Researchers, staff at international relations offices, vice presidents for research, executives in the science, technology, and innovation sector, and individuals interested in scientific communication, collaboration, and outreach.

Skills you will certify:

  • Science Diplomacy
  • Internationalization of Research
  • Science Policy
  • Multi-Stakeholder Coordination
  • Strategic Partnership
  • Scientific Communication

Note: The digital badge will be awarded upon full attendance at the session and completion of the practical assignments given during the class.

Organized by and hosted by:

This public and scientific diplomacy initiative is led by the U.S. Embassy in Bogotá, Fulbright Colombia, the Universidad de América, the Colombian Association of Universities (CCYK), and the Friends of Fulbright Foundation (FAF).

Save the date for the upcoming sessions

Stay tuned for the “Binational Perspectives” series. Registration for the following high-impact thematic modules will open very soon:

  • Masterclass 3: New Graduate Course and Research Thrust on Underground Space. TBD
  • Masterclass 4: Capacity Building — Implementation of AI in Nursing Education. TBD
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