When it comes to university-society engagement, there may be many factors hindering its success. As part of the activities in the first project result of the Tenacity project, ACEEU conducted a literature review on this very topic and found that support of internal structures could be a game-changer to empower the engagement activities of universities.
Why? We asked the Academic Community through a focus group to gain more insights. Researchers, professors and engagement experts came together in the focus group to discuss this topic and we realized that many institutions are facing the same challenges. The main reason why internal support structures would make a difference is that the university would gain systematic organizational support. This would allow the coordination of many different activities with the community.
Moreover, it was also discussed during the focus group that Higher Education institutions (HEIs) have a long tradition of community-engagement activities, highlighting that the key element to a long-lasting engagement with society. Thus, it is fundamental to cultivate a relationship with local organizations throughout time and establish some communication channels between HEIs and society to keep community-engagement activities alive and thriving.
If you would like to know more about this stay tuned and do not miss the Tenacity project updates and check the project website.
Photo Credit: CANVA
