Collaborative Effort to Boost Tech Education in Querétaro
Querétaro, Mexico will soon have a Mirai Laboratories complex dedicated to artificial intelligence (AI), neurotechnology, automation, Industry 4.0, and robotics in the secondary education level. This initiative stems from a partnership between Mirai Innovation Research Institute in Japan, the National College of Technical and Professional Education (Conalep) in Querétaro, and the State Council for Science and Technology of Querétaro (Concyteq).
Laboratory Details and Objectives
The laboratory, to be installed at the Roberto Ruiz Obregón campus of Conalep, will feature research infrastructure, prototyping areas, interactive exhibitions, and specialized equipment. José Carlos Arredondo Velázquez, the General Director of Conalep in Querétaro, explained that this space will incorporate high-tech equipment linked to the Mirai Institute, making it the first Mirai lab in Mexico’s secondary education sector, as there are already precedents at the undergraduate level.
The laboratory will provide training services to other Conalep campuses, primarily benefiting students in technology-focused careers related to the automotive, aerospace, and mechatronics industries. It is also intended to promote AI adoption.
Strategic Importance and Investment
Arredondo Velázquez emphasized that 2026 is crucial for AI integration, and all communities must join this path towards adopting AI and related technologies. He stated that the lab, along with efforts to revamp plans and programs, aims to contribute to Querétaro’s AI adoption strategy, as it is not just about technology but also economic competitiveness.
An initial investment of two million pesos (one million from Conalep and one million from Concyteq) has been allocated, with a total global investment of four million pesos. Construction will start next week and is expected to finish by August, ahead of the upcoming school year.
Equipment and International Collaboration
The laboratory will use equipment developed by the Mirai Innovation Research Institute. The project is divided into several stages, with the first focusing on establishing facilities and a subsequent two-month training period for staff. Operations are expected to commence in the second semester, according to Christian Peñaloza, a Mexican researcher and director of the Mirai Innovation Research Institute based in Osaka, Japan.
Peñaloza explained that the Japanese research institute and technology center works with high-level AI, robotics, humanoid robotics, industrial robotics, surgical robotics, virtual reality, augmented reality, and other specialties. They are currently developing a system to prevent diseases like Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Early Specialized Training
Peñaloza highlighted the need to form specialized talent in these areas and begin training early, rather than waiting until higher education. He stressed the importance of nurturing more skilled professionals, not just at the undergraduate level but also in secondary education.
“These are topics we’re already working on, and we see the need for more skilled professionals. However, acquiring this talent isn’t just important at the undergraduate level; it’s crucial in secondary education. This is where we find a good connection to create a new program enabling these young individuals to learn about all these seemingly futuristic technologies that are already impacting all our industries, society, and will revolutionize every aspect of daily life,” Peñaloza said.
Internationalization Program
As part of the alliance, Conalep and Concyteq will manage an internationalization program, sending Mexican students to Japan to foster dual training opportunities.
Relevance and Querétaro’s Standing
During the project launch, Enrique Rabell García, Director of Concyteq, emphasized the significance of creating technology-generating centers.
Norma Muñoz Madrigal, Coordinator of Secondary Education and Workforce Training at the State Education Secretariat, pointed out Querétaro’s national ranking as a secondary education hub. She added that 46 out of every 100 students proceed to the upper secondary level.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the purpose of the new laboratory in Querétaro? The lab aims to provide advanced training in AI, neurotechnology, automation, Industry 4.0, and robotics for secondary education students.
- Who is behind this initiative? The project is a collaboration between Mirai Innovation Research Institute in Japan, Conalep Querétaro, and Concyteq.
- What makes this lab unique? It will be the first Mirai laboratory dedicated to secondary education in Mexico, focusing on equipping students with cutting-edge technology skills.
- What is the significance of this lab for Querétaro’s economy? The lab aims to promote AI adoption and prepare students for technology-driven industries, contributing to Querétaro’s economic competitiveness.
- What is the internationalization program mentioned? This program will send Mexican students to Japan for dual training opportunities, fostering international collaboration and knowledge exchange.
