Embedding Inclusive Innovation and Social Entrepreneurship in Higher Education
Embedding Inclusive Innovation and Social Entrepreneurship in Higher Education

Summary/Abstract: Objective: This study aims to lay the foundation for design and delivery of ed-ucational programs in the field of Inclusive Innovation (II) and Social Entrepre-neurship (SE) at a tertiary level.Methodology: The study adopted a multi -phase methodology to developa comprehensive Toolkit for designing and delivering educational programs inII&SE. Firstly, a systematic literature review was conducted to clarify concep-tual frameworks and identify best practices. This was followed by an empiricalanalysis of 25 existing II&SE study programs and courses offered at a tertiarylevel in Europe, which helped identify effective pedagogical and curricularapproaches. The third phase involved categorizing best practices based onthematic relevance. Finally, stakeholder engagement panels were conductedin four EU countries (Bulgaria, Italy, Lithuania, and Poland) to gather practicalfeedback.Findings: The analysis revealed that II&SE education is being integrated throughvarious models in HEIs, including stand -alone programs, embedded modules,and extracurricular initiatives. Experiential and practice -based learning methodsproved more effective than traditional lectures. Stakeholders are vital in enrichingII&SE education by offering real -world collaboration opportunities. The impactwas identified at three levels: individual (skills development), economic (entre-preneurial activity and employability), and societal (community developmentand inclusion).Value Added: This study contributes to the growing field of II&SE by providinga structured, evidence -based Toolkit adaptable for diverse educational contexts.The present study also brings to light the importance of incorporating II&SEeducation in response to global development challenges, providing validatedimpact indicators and assessment tools to use for curriculum development andaccountability.

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