University Transformation and Curriculum Redesign in the Area of Reason and Faith and Pastoral Care at Universidad Politécnica Salesiana

On the Occasion of Its 30th Anniversary

Abstract

In the pursuit of continuing the processes of university transformation that have shaped Latin America in recent decades, the Ecuadorian state has driven significant changes in its educational policy, necessitating a curriculum review in higher education institutions. The Universidad Politécnica Salesiana (UPS) responded to this demand with a comprehensive redesign of its study programmes, aimed at providing holistic education for its students. This redesign encompassed interdisciplinary aspects, including research, community engagement, teaching, collaborative methodologies, new technologies, and the strengthening of Salesian charism and identity. This study aims to analyse the transformation and curriculum redesign of the Area of Reason and Faith and Pastoral Care at the UPS over its 30-year history. Using a hermeneutic methodology, it interprets the concepts and perspectives that help to understand this evolution. The conclusion is that the UPS has met the challenge of envisioning education as a dynamic system that integrates global and local perspectives, science, research, and service to vulnerable communities.