THE INCORPORATION OF SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY INTO THE PRACTICES OF HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS AND ITS INTERSECTION WITH THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

Abstract

The social responsibility of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) constitutes a relevant dimension of their engagement with society and their contribution to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study examines the incorporation of social responsibility into the practices of a private HEI, with particular emphasis on its contribution to community development and access to justice. Methodologically, a literature review on university social responsibility, social responsibility, higher education, and the SDGs was combined with a case study of the Legal Practice Office of Centro Universitário Campo Real, in Guarapuava, Paraná, Brazil. The analysis covered data from 2020 to 2023 and focused on conciliation and restorative justice practices developed in partnership with the Judiciary Center for Conflict and Citizenship Resolution. The findings indicate that 15% of individuals who sought legal assistance from the Office annually achieved conflict resolution without resorting to litigation. The analysis also indicates that these practices contribute to the development of students’ academic and interpersonal skills in consensual conflict resolution and foster closer alignment between academic training and social needs. The study concludes that practices of this nature can operationalize the social responsibility of HEIs and contribute to the achievement of the SDGs, particularly those related to peace, justice, and effective institutions.