Close to completing his first hundred days in office, Josephine Good He has a clear purpose: “It took substantial effort to build this ministry in Alicante, and retreat is not an option.” The owner of Innovation, Universities, Science and Digital Society in Alicante is more ambitious than ever, pledging to grow the department across the region. The aim is to strengthen human capital and expand the impact of policies on the daily lives of Alicante residents, all in step with the Generalitat president Ximo Puig’s regional restructuring plan.
He started with a built‑in advantage, knowing firsthand the work carried out within the department. Under his leadership, the goal is to elevate Alicante’s presence on the global political map and to position the province as a central decision‑making hub in the Valencian Community. “It is crucial to sharpen our capabilities and win in human resources. I will push the ministry’s reach further,” he notes, advancing in a discussion where consolidation and growth dominate the conversation.
Josefina Bueno: “If something needs to be adjusted so AVI can avoid regional imbalances, we will do it”
One of the biggest challenges is ensuring that efforts in digital access, connectivity, and transforming the productive fabric are visible as public service. The goal is to make Alicante residents feel the presence of a Consell department nearby, actively working to improve life quality. “We are the link with the regional government, the conduit for the second city of the Community to achieve regional cohesion,” Bueno says, planning to showcase this collaboration as ministers visit Alicante.
The head of Innovation and Universities insists that Puig’s 2019 initiative is here to stay and keep growing. He recognizes that expanding this effort requires the whole team’s input, “staff who do not seek the spotlight,” to whom he expresses gratitude for daily contributions. Beyond the president’s push to establish a stronger ministry, Bueno values the state’s influence. “We aim to cultivate citizens who feel part of a shared path toward a better life,” he emphasizes, with goals to create greater wealth for the community and craft policies benefiting the population as a whole.
Project
The minister notes that the roadmap toward the next electoral moment centers on strengthening the socialist political project. Its pillars include scholarships, aid for the self‑employed, investment in science, and the protection of public health—elements that form the backbone of a robust welfare state. “We want to invite citizens who feel like partners in a better life,” he underlines. The upcoming period, while the Ukraine conflict unfolds, will still see a warm, dynamic political climate in the region.
A consellera with class, consciousness, and immigrant spirit
Although the department is tightly linked to the digital realm, the speech carries a strong social dimension. “We want the world’s top scientists to settle in the Community, while also ensuring that every citizen’s child can access higher education and follow this path,” he believes. As a member of the Socialist Party for seven years, the leadership calls for confidence to maintain continuity. This stance is supported by figures such as the notable decline in unemployment this week and anticipated tourist crowds along the Costa Blanca in August.
Regarding the appointment of his predecessor, Elche’s Caroline Pascual as Commissioner for Digitization and Cybersecurity, he views it as positive news. “She knows the ministry and will continue contributing to its development. We will keep cooperating closely because she supports this political project and will encourage its growth,” he concludes.