6.4 Empowering and mobilizing youth
In line with the previous proposal and the fourth point mentioned in the Conclusion, in which the urgent need for connecting theory with practice and the University with the world of work is obvious, service-learning is proposed:
The use of the specific innovative service-learning methodology is recommended, as it encourages the University and society to work together, not only to transform society but also to transform the whole University community. It is a suitable methodology for the participatory skills that empower youth to act as change agents in local SD processes (GAP priority action 4-b). It facilitates the integral training of students who perform a service to society by looking after and taking care of people and communities from disadvantaged or needy backgrounds or resolving local sustainability problems (CRUE-Comisión de Sostenibilidad, 2015). This methodology contributes to a bidirectional enhancement for students and the community without necessarily being charity work (Furco, 1996).