Public Innovation Policies in the Context of Globalization

The chapter examines the impact of globalization on public policy and the role of innovation in this process. It focuses on policies for higher education and science, highlighting the centrality of innovation in producing and disseminating knowledge and in fostering human capital, both of which are considered essential for national development. The effects of globalization are evident in the increasingly complex ecosystem of education, science, and innovation, which now involves new actors and strategies that call for updated public policies. This context provides the basis for theorizing new missions for universities. On the one hand, these missions require changes in their organizational and operational models, including the adoption of new methodologies, pedagogies, and the provision of novel goods and services. On the other hand, they entail opening universities to society in order to respond to social needs and global challenges. The authors argue that universities, throughout history, have consistently been compelled to adapt through innovation—supporting states and serving populations—and must remain true to this foundational role. Since the university was born in the city and exists for the city, they propose the idea of the “univercity,” a distinctive project built around principles such as curriculum reform, interdisciplinary research, community engagement, social responsibility, and respect for human rights. The most innovative aspect of this proposal lies in moving beyond the traditional view of the university as a mere transmitter of knowledge, toward a vision of the university as a place where individuals can develop critical consciousness and contribute to social transformation and cohesion in the service of truth.