University extension promotes social engagement, expands access to scientific knowledge, and strengthens the formation of critical thinking citizens. In science education, extension programs bridges the gap between academic research and societal needs, fostering inclusive and transformative learning practices. The present study investigates university extension from a historical perspective, analyzing its impacts on science education, the democratization of knowledge, and the development of leaderships committed to global citizenship. Focusing on Ibero-American countries, this research examines how different nations have shaped their extension policies, identifying both similarities and regional particularities. In Latin America, university extension has become a fundamental strategy for social development, promoting knowledge accessibility and strengthening local communities. Through the analysis of historical documents, institutional structures, and academic literature, we identify trends in the integration of extension into teaching and research, contrasting them with models adopted in other international contexts. The results reveal that while Latin American extension has a strong community-driven and social character, in some European regions, it is more closely linked to technological innovation and knowledge transfer to the productive sector. Aligned with the conference themes Community & Society and Global Citizenship and Education for Peace, this study highlights university extension as an essential pillar for building more equitable and sustainable societies. Strengthening international exchange and interdisciplinary dialogue can expand the reach of these initiatives, fostering a more inclusive, socially responsible, and globally engaged higher education system.

Authors:
Emmanueli Moraes, State University of Campinas, Brazil
Reginaldo Alberto Meloni, Universidade Federal de São Paulo and Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Brazil

About the Presenter(s)
Emmanueli Francine de Castro Moraes is a Physics undergraduate student at IFGW-Unicamp and a master's student in Science and Mathematics Education at PECIM-Unicamp, researching the history of university extension – outreach in Brazil.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmanueli-moraes

Additional website of interest
http://lattes.cnpq.br/2091649286805853

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