Pertinencia de la oferta de la Educación Superior: Caso Municipio Funza

Abstract

This study analyzes the relevance of the higher education offerings in the municipality of Funza, Cundinamarca, with the aim of determining how well they align with the needs, interests, and expectations of the local context. The research adopts a mixed-methods, descriptive approach that combines documentary analysis with questionnaires administered to secondary school students, teachers, and local businesses.The results reveal that the relevance of higher education in Funza is limited in terms of coverage, diversity, and alignment with local demands. There is a weak connection between the academic programs available and the needs of the productive sector. Regarding barriers to accessing higher education, educational institutions highlight the lack of vocational guidance and a widespread lack of awareness of available programs, while students emphasize the financial burden as the main obstacle. Furthermore, when choosing academic programs and institutions, students prioritize labor market opportunities, such as program demand, employment prospects, and expected income.Within this context, the Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas emerges as an institution with high potential. It is recognized by the productive sector and has been included in the municipality’s educational policy plans. Perceptions compared to other institutions already operating in Funza suggest favorable conditions for its positioning, especially if effective dissemination strategies are implemented to promote programs, access routes, and available benefits.In conclusion, Funza faces significant challenges in strengthening the relevance of its higher education offerings butalso has concrete opportunities for improvement. It is recommended to diversify the academic offerings and enhance articulation processes between educational institutions, the community, and the productive sector to achieve this goal.