Governance, strategic management and university government: convergence for results

DOI: https://doi.org/10.54674/ess.v36i2.914
Keywords: Strategic Management; Governance; Higher Education; Autonomy

Abstract

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of governance innovations implemented at the University of Campinas (Unicamp) during the 2017–2021 period. It highlights how aligning the government’s political agenda with the institution’s strategic planning can yield positive, measurable results with significant external impact. This governance model adheres to public governance principles and offers a framework applicable to other public universities in Brazil and Latin America. By embracing principles of good public governance in university management and recognizing the interdependence between core academic activities and administrative functions, Unicamp was able to develop medium- and long-term projects. These initiatives were crucial for ensuring financial sustainability, optimizing work processes, and enhancing the institution’s credibility and engagement with society. The originality of this approach lies in the creation of internal governance mechanisms tailored to Unicamp’s specific needs. These mechanisms were informed by a contextual analysis used as a diagnostic tool, with institutional performance evaluated by independent external committees to ensure transparency and accountability. The study employed a qualitative and descriptive methodology, involving the review and analysis of scientific articles, technical and management reports, official Unicamp documents, and news published on publicly accessible platforms.

Author Biographies

Teresa Dib Zambon Atvars, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp)

She is a retired full professor at the Chemistry Institute of the State University of Campinas (UNICAMP). She holds a degree in Chemistry from UNICAMP, and a master's and doctorate in Sciences from the same institution. She contributed significantly to the development of the field of photochemistry in Brazil and has advised numerous students at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Atvars has held several important administrative positions at UNICAMP, including Pro-Rector of Graduate Studies, University Development, and Vice-Rector, contributing significantly to the modernization of the university's management. She has also been prominent in assessment initiatives, internationalization, and the promotion of equity and diversity in higher education.

Marcelo Knobel, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp)

He is a full professor at the Gleb Wataghin Physics Institute of the University of Campinas (UNICAMP), where he has worked since 1995. He graduated in Physics from UNICAMP, holds a PhD in Sciences from the same institution, and has postdoctoral studies at the Istituto Elettrotecnico Nazionale Galileo Ferraris, in Italy, and at the Institute of Applied Magnetism, in Spain. His research focuses on magnetism of nanostructured materials. Knobel was Rector of UNICAMP (2017-2021), as well as Pro-Rector of Undergraduate Studies (2009-2013), during which time he implemented the Interdisciplinary Higher Education Program (ProFIS). He is recognized for his work in scientific dissemination, collaborating with the Laboratory for Advanced Studies in Journalism (LABJOR) since 2000. Throughout his career, he has received several honors, such as the José Reis Prize for Scientific Dissemination (2019) and the CBMM Prize for Science and Technology (2022). He is a member of the World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) and Commander of the National Order of Scientific Merit. In addition, he is an enthusiast of strengthening the role of public universities in society and a defender of academic freedom and institutional autonomy.

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Published
2024-12-27
How to Cite
Atvars, T. D. Z., & Knobel, M. (2024). Governance, strategic management and university government: convergence for results. Higher Education and Society Journal (ESS), 36(2), 454-496. https://doi.org/10.54674/ess.v36i2.914
Issue
Vol 36 No 2 (2024): Academic freedom. Risks and threats
Section
General section articles

Copyright (c) 2024 Teresa Dib Zambon Atvars, Marcelo Knobel

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