UFHEC and Rome’s Tor Vergata join forces to research sargassum

Santo Domingo.- The Federico Henríquez y Carvajal University (UFHEC) has signed a scientific cooperation agreement with the University of Rome Tor Vergata in Italy to study the biomedical and bioactive potential of sargassum. The initiative aims to turn this environmental challenge into opportunities for innovation and sustainable development.

UFHEC’s national rector, Alberto Ramírez, stressed that the partnership reflects the institution’s commitment to science, innovation, and the search for solutions with global impact. Meanwhile, Vice Rector for Science, Technology, and Innovation, Dr. Darwin Muñoz, noted that the research will focus on exploring the algae’s applications in marine biotechnology and health, opening the door to economic, social, and environmental benefits.

The agreement comes at a crucial time, as Dominican coasts have been severely affected by sargassum in recent years. To address the issue, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (MESCYT) allocated RD$85 million earlier this year to support projects that protect tourism and safeguard the health of coastal communities.