Actions for democratic management in Mexican public universities during the COVID-19 pandemic

Gestión democrática universitaria en la pandemia COVID-19

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted various spheres of life, including health, education, and the economy. Higher Education Institutions took immediate action to continue academic activities remotely. In Mexico, as in most Latin American countries, the federal government did not develop a national strategy for the university sector during the pandemic, beyond establishing health guidelines and recommendations for best practices. This study aims to analyze democratic participation in the actions implemented by Mexican public universities and university management under the conditions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. A qualitative approach using documentary research methods was employed, with five state public universities selected via convenience sampling. Democratic management was evidenced through the various actions implemented within a highly complex context for academic communities in Mexico. The COVID-19 pandemic offers many lessons, demonstrating how problems magnified during the health crisis can be collectively addressed and overcome. It highlights the social commitment of Mexican public universities to continue fulfilling their core functions: teaching, research, outreach, and the dissemination of culture.