Development of Administrative and Accounting Skills Through Extracurricular Training for Vulnerable Populations in Community Settings (DECACECAC)

The DECACECAC project, led by the GIE-MPA group at the Universidad Politécnica Salesiana, addresses the need to strengthen administrative and accounting capabilities in vulnerable sectors of Guayaquil. Despite the importance of extracurricular training for holistic development, this area often lacks a systemic structure and precise diagnostics in community contexts. The research uses a mixed-methods approach and an interpretive-phenomenological paradigm to diagnose the real needs of entrepreneurs in neighborhoods such as Barrio Cuba and the Nueva Vida community. Through the systematization of experiences and the application of Popular Education, the team designs a structured training program that allows participants to apply technical knowledge directly to their own businesses. The expected impact includes improved business performance, the strengthening of soft skills such as teamwork and problem-solving, and the creation of a replicable university-society engagement model. Upon completion, the project will deliver a validated program and published scientific results, directly benefiting 185 selected individuals from various community organizations and foundations.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>Contribute to the development of administrative and accounting competencies in vulnerable populations through an extracurricular training program in community settings. The project aims to bridge the gap between academic training and the practical needs of local entrepreneurs.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>Didactics and alternative learning methodologies<br/>Educational actions and/or linkage activities to care for priority populations<br/>Development of the teaching dimension from R&D&I projects