Hidalgo Scientist Receives 2025 Science and Technology Prize for Work with Rural Communities
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Dr. Hortencia Soto Alarcón has been awarded the Hidalgo Prize for Science and Technology 2025 in recognition of her significant contributions to social well-being, knowledge advancement, and innovative solutions within the state of Hidalgo and across Mexico. The award was presented by Governor Julio Menchaca Salazar. Dr. Soto Alarcón’s work focuses on collaborative research with producer cooperatives, particularly those involved in maguey cultivation, natural medicine, and the preservation of traditional peasant knowledge.
recognizing a Career Dedicated to Hidalgo’s Growth
Throughout her career, Dr. Soto Alarcón has prioritized the development of Hidalgo, working closely with cooperatives in municipalities including Cardonal, Ixmiquilpan, and Tlahuiltepa. She emphasized her commitment to this work, stating, “My purpose as a researcher has been to contribute to the development of Hidalgo; for more than twenty years I have worked alongside groups dedicated to maguey, natural medicine and peasant knowledge.”
The Importance of Institutional Support
Dr. Soto Alarcón highlighted the crucial role of the Council of Science, Technology and Innovation of Hidalgo (Citnova) in supporting her research and advocated for increased support for rural and urban cooperatives, emphasizing the need for an equity-focused approach. This support is vital for fostering innovation and ensuring that the benefits of scientific advancement are shared broadly.
Valuing Biocultural Diversity
A central theme of Dr.Soto Alarcón’s work is the recognition and preservation of mexico’s rich biocultural diversity. She stressed the importance of learning from indigenous and peasant communities, stating, “Recognizing the cultural, ecological and social diversity of our entity is fundamental. Mexico is bioculturally diverse, and peasant and indigenous peoples have a lot to teach us; we also have a lot to learn from them.” This viewpoint underscores the value of traditional knowledge systems in addressing contemporary challenges.
Key Takeaways
* Award Recognition: Dr. Hortencia Soto Alarcón received the Hidalgo Prize for science and Technology 2025 for her impactful research.
* Community Focus: Her work centers on collaboration with rural producer cooperatives in Hidalgo.
* Biocultural Diversity: Dr. soto Alarcón champions the importance of recognizing and learning from indigenous and peasant knowledge.
* Institutional Support: She advocates for strengthened support for cooperatives through organizations like Citnova.
This award acknowledges Dr. Soto Alarcón’s dedication to bridging the gap between scientific research and the needs of local communities in Hidalgo, and her work serves as a model for inclusive and enduring development. Her continued research promises to further unlock the potential of traditional knowledge and contribute to a more equitable future for the region.
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