San Sebastián is buzzing with recent events, bringing hope and excitement to its residents. From innovative entrepreneurship programs to significant social protests, the city is experiencing noteworthy changes.
The City Hall of San Sebastián has announced an intriguing raffle for local residents, offering 275 sections of the iconic railings from La Concha Beach. These pieces, each measuring about 80 centimeters and weighing around 50 kilograms, are being sold for €185, which covers the preparation costs for their delivery. Mayor Eneko Goia described this initiative as a way for the community to reclaim part of the city's emblematic features, especially since the railings have been replaced due to their deteriorated condition. “For those interested, this offers the chance to acquire one of the removed pieces,” Goia stated, emphasizing the emotional value attached to the railings.
Residents who wish to participate must be at least 18 years old and either registered to vote in San Sebastián or born there. Applications will open on March 3, and people can submit them via the municipal website or at local government offices. A provisional list of winners will be published in April, with the final results to be confirmed by May, pending any appeals. It's worth noting, though, the regulations stipulate winners cannot sell or reproduce these railings, preserving their unique status. This thoughtful initiative not only connects locals to their history but also invites them to participate actively in the life and culture of San Sebastián.
Simultaneously, members of the community have raised their voices against judicial proceedings concerning social protests. Last year's International Tourism Organization conference sparked unrest, leading to protests where the Ertzaintza (the Basque police) reacted aggressively, resulting in injuries and arrests. The BDH has mobilized its members to stand against the criminalization of social protest, rallying support for those facing legal challenges. Journalist Iñaki Agirre reported on this situation, highlighting the brutal reality many protesters face and emphasizing the need for support networks during such turmoil.
Meanwhile, the Basque Center on Cognition, Brain and Language (BCBL) continues to thrive, inviting significant public collaboration. Since its inception, over 80,000 residents have participated in various research studies aimed at unraveling the mysteries of the human brain. Center leaders, including Scientific Director Manuel Carreiras, have underscored the importance of local participation and its role in advancing research on language learning and diseases like Alzheimer’s. With projects funded by the European Union, the BCBL is becoming recognized as one of the leading centers for neurocognitive research, positively impacting both the scientific community and local citizens.
The center aims to expand its research participation, stressing the benefits of engaging with residents, from infants to seniors, to gather valuable data which has broader societal benefits. Upcoming projects will explore how early exposure to multiple languages influences learning outcomes, potentially mitigating reading disorders.
On another front, the EKINN Node of Innovation and Entrepreneurship has celebrated its first anniversary. This hub has become pivotal for fostering innovation, assisting 229 entrepreneurial projects and welcoming more than 5,500 visitors. Contributing to the local economy, EKINN functions as both incubator and community space. Ane Oyarbide, the local Economy and Employment Councilor, emphasized the collaborative nature of EKINN’s approach, which combines support services, educational opportunities, and advice to aspiring entrepreneurs.
EKINN has become not only a resource for traditional business support but has also focused heavily on innovative projects. The inclusion of gender-specific programs, particularly supporting women under 35, is notable, with over half of the accelerator participants being female entrepreneurs. This initiative exemplifies the city’s commitment to inclusivity and forward-thinking growth.
Looking forward, EKINN plans to strengthen its role as a beacon for innovative projects, aiming to attract international entrepreneurial talent and support youth initiatives through its talent housing programs. A vision for the future sees EKINN as both regional hub and global model for civic and entrepreneurial engagement.
Through these diverse stories of engagement, social protest, scientific research, and entrepreneurial growth, San Sebastián continues to thrive as a community at the intersection of tradition and modernity. Each initiative not only seeks to honor the city's rich history but also builds pathways for future generations, demonstrating how local efforts can lead to substantial impact.