The rector of Unicamp, Paulo Cesar Montagner, and the CEO of the public company Informática de Municípios Associados (IMA), Elias Tavares, began discussions this Monday (9) to establish partnerships between the two institutions. Founded in 1976, IMA is a mixed-economy company whose largest shareholder is the City of Campinas. It provides services in the areas of information and communication technology (ICT), smart cities and innovation with a focus on public management.
“This is a company with half a century of existence, possessing expertise in the area of public services. Therefore, it is very possible that we will find a capacity for cooperation, not only in the development [of software], but also in the exchange of experiences,” said the rector at the end of the meeting.
André Von Zuben, a member of the Board of Directors of IMA, explained that the company currently works on three main fronts: developing specific software, seeking innovative solutions for public management, and partnering in the creation of smart city models – a form of urban management that uses technology and data analysis to improve the quality of life for citizens, with sustainability and efficiency in public services.
During the meeting, the general coordinator of Unicamp, Professor Fernando Coelho, reinforced the idea of collaboration. "The University has been making moves to connect with the municipalities in the region, and our intention is to strengthen these interactions and thereby maximize the services we provide," he stated.
The Executive Director of Information and Communication Technology at Unicamp, Professor Ricardo Dahab, suggested holding workshops where the University and the company can identify common points of interest for future collaborations.
Also participating in the meeting were IMA's commercial manager, Mario Jachetto Netto, the Rector's Chief of Staff, Osvaldir Taranto, the Deputy Chief of Staff, Zigomar Menezes, and the Pro-Rector of University Development, Fernando Sarti.
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