Research is fundamental to advance human knowledge and to provide fact-based evidence. GIMLA aims at advancing research projects on highly relevant topics for the Latin American region and tapping into the local expertise and ongoing initiatives in St.Gallen. At the same time, research projects and their underlying networks generate direct synergies with the outreach and teaching activities of GIMLA.
Thematic working groups are established in order to canalize efforts and provide a collaborative platform. The first one focuses on Inclusive and Sustainable Urban Environments (WISE). A second working group was established to advance research and activities on the Society, Environment and Technology Interrelations (SENTIR).
For HSG students these working groups offer great opportunities to write practice-oriented thesis assignments and to contribute to making a real impact.
For HSG staff these working groups provide established networks and trained partnerships to connect compatible research and teaching ideas and expand existing interests into the Latin American region.
For academics and practice partners in Latin America, these working groups are always seeking new meaningful collaborations to advance our knowledge on a more sustainable and equitable transition in the region.
WISE in a Nutshell
This working group aims at advancing structured investigation on challenges and opportunities in cities. Urban development is often taking place in an unequal and unsustainable way and creative ways need to be found how local governments can respond to the increasing pressure of urbanization in an environment of scarce resources.
- Several topics with high policy relevance
- Established collaborations with several international organizations
- Opportunity to contribute to actual change
- International Outreach and Network Activities
- Practice-oriented thesis assignments: 12 completed and 16 ongoing (09.2021)
SENTIR in a Nutshell
This working group focuses on the complex interconnections of society, technology and nature by analyzing complex environmental transformation processes that are essential for a deeper understanding of current debates on sustainability and development.
- Two thematic focal points: social entrepreneurship and the Brazilian Amazon
- Strong collaboration with local academia and organizations
- Direct links to educational offers (HSG courses, Compacts)
- Practice-oriented and research-informed thesis assignments: 10 completed and 13 ongoing (09.2021)