Implementation of the Local Development Strategy in Honduras: an approach based on good practices

Abstract

The National Autonomous University of Honduras (UNAH), through its University-Society Liaison Office (DVUS), has crafted a strategy aimed at reinforcing connections with the community and spurring local development across municipalities, setting sights on milestones up to the year 2028. Har-monizing with UNAH’s policies dedicated to uplifting socioeconomic welfare in Honduras, this strategy holds pivotal significance. This article sheds light on the instrumental role played by the UNAH's Tela Higher Technological Institute (ITS TELA) in breathing life into this strategy, with a spotlight on the municipalities of Tela, Arizona, and Esparta in the Atlántida department.

Furthermore, the paper delves into initiatives undertaken since 2019, encompassing the for-mulation of vocational training courses in gastronomy, electricity, and refrigeration; the orchestration of outreach campaigns showcasing UNAH’s academic portfolio; the roll-out of a capacity-building pro-gram to invigorate municipal management; and the conception of scientific research projects. The fruits borne by this inquiry point to a bolstered university-community bond, exemplified by a 20% uptick in student enrollment at ITS TELA, the cementing of twelve strategic partnerships, the empowerment of 151 youths through training, and the launch of four research projects in marine-coastal and environmen-tal realms