Engaging Honduran Science Diasporas for Development: Evidence From Three Consolidated Networks

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Science and Technology Policy
• Higher Education Studies

Background:

• Honduras experiences significant challenges in its higher education system, impacting science and technology (S&T) workforce development.
• Low investment in S&T and economic constraints contribute to a

Purpose of the Study:

• To empirically explore the networking and engagement experiences of the Honduran scientific diasporas (HSD) for national development.
• To address the lack of official statistics and characterization of Honduran scientists abroad.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative approach with a phenomenological design.
• Data collection through documentary review and semi-structured interviews with 21 key respondents.
• Analysis focused on three identified HSD networks: Honduras Global, OWSD Honduras, and AGEAP-Zamorano.

Main Results:

• Evidence of existing registry gaps regarding Honduran scientists' emigration patterns.
• Neither S&T agents nor Honduras Foreign Policy have identified or mapped these emigration patterns.
• Identified willingness of HSD to transfer knowledge and facilitate access to research practices.

Conclusions:

• Honduran scientific diasporas are a valuable resource for national development.
• There is a need for systematic identification and engagement strategies for the HSD.
• Facilitating HSD engagement can bridge research gaps and enhance S&T capacity in Honduras.