Abstracto
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ABSTRACT:
Based on the current socio-economic situation that many countries of Central America are going through, the need for academic and scientific institutions to increase enrollment and training of human resources in the areas of exact sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and technologies are perceived. It also requires stimulating research and innovation. Unfortunately, although many young people are curious about these areas of knowledge, few focus their university studies towards them. To change this trend, it is essential to carry out activities that allow developing ideas and awakening interest in science and technology in innovative young talents, especially between 14 and 17 years of age, since at this age is when most students discover the professional lines that attract them most, which can be directed as scientific-technological careers. This article introduces the need to promote among young people knowledge in engineering in general, and in particular in the technological field in programming, robotics, telecommunications, and energy saving. An example of a summer technological camp developed in the Centro Regional de Azuero of the Universidad Tecnológica de Panamá is presented, in the context of a governmental program of promotion for the realization of activities that develop critical thinking and scientific skills in young people. The results show that this camp managed to convey a clear message to the participating students, highlighting the contribution that engineering and technology make to our daily lives. Finally, some conclusions are offered about this tool that allows boosting the interest in science and technology