The cuban university in social innovation ecosystems for governance in local development

Abstract

Introduction: this article addresses the importance of the university as a driving force for governance in local development, based on its essential role in the knowledge linkages that characterize social innovation. Objective: to design a management procedure for the relationship between the university, Municipal University Centers, government, and economic actors, which, as part of social innovation ecosystems and through the systematization of socially innovative practices, contributes to governance in local development. Method: through a theoretical-practical action research approach, the study analyzes how higher education institutions can significantly contribute to the socioeconomic progress of their regions, acting as a central axis in social innovation ecosystems that articulate knowledge management with a multilevel and collaborative approach. Results: the procedure includes the identification of community-level needs, the identification of territorial resources, the creation of monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, and facilitates the systematization of socially innovative practices, contributing to capacity building with a socioeconomic governance perspective. Conclusion: the university, as a catalyst within social innovation ecosystems, has the potential to drive significant changes for governance in local development, promoting an effective integration of knowledge and resources.