Позитивные изменения. Том 3, № 3 (2023). Positive changes. Volume 3, Issue 3 (2023)

ENGAGEMENT IN SOCIETAL AFFAIRS

As highlighted earlier, the core essence of service learning revolves around the symbiotic relationship between universities and non-profit organizations (NGOs).

In today’s world, the youth demographic stands as a wellspring of myriad social initiatives, since the younger generation has a desire to effect positive change is wholeheartedly inclined to actively partake in the dynamics of society, Artem Metelev believes.

At this moment, the pivotal juncture for meaningful collaboration between universities and non-profit entities should not be overlooked, underscores Elena Isaeva. This is because higher education institutions embody the final bastion where an individual’s core values can be shaped. As such, it would be shortsighted to merely impart professional competencies to students, neglecting the cultivation of patriotism, civic responsibility, and broader philosophical perspectives.

“NGO leaders, being the most active proponents of the right cause, wield the potential to profoundly influence the development of civic character on an emotional level,” affirms Isaeva. “No one can resonate with the depths of the human soul quite like an NGO leader who herself is a mother to a differently-abled child. Her motivations transcend mere remuneration; her commitment arises from an unshakeable conviction that a different path in life is inconceivable, and she dedicates herself to alleviating the challenges faced by her child and those akin to him or her. Consequently, the integration of authentic, environment-born projects into the educational process is of paramount significance, as opposed to relying on contrived academic constructs.”

“We are currently at the stage of fostering a partnership culture between NGOs and universities. The data from the Presidential Grants Fund substantiates a burgeoning landscape where thousands of projects feature universities collaborating with NGOs,” remarks Artem Shadrin, Director of the Institute of Socio-Economic Design at the National Research University Higher School of Economics.

The scope of collaboration between universities and NGOs is extensive, spanning:

• The inclusion of nonprofits in the development and execution of educational programs: teaching, internships, practical experiences, and the establishment of collaborative structural units resembling foundational departments;

• The implementation of joint volunteer initiatives, involving not just students but also university staff;

• The orchestration of analytical research and the assessment of socio-economic outcomes for NGOs by universities;

• Collaboration in the execution of supplementary professional education programs and online courses;

• Allocation of dedicated spaces;

• Joint participation in formulating strategic developmental blueprints for territories, for instance, within the framework of “boiling point” initiatives, and much more.