University and Territory: The Community Educational Pact as a systemic response to the educational crisis

Abstract

This paper examines the Community Educational Pact (CEP) implemented in the province of Trapani as part of the research project “School–University–Territory” promoted by the University of Palermo. It explores the university’s role as a social actor fostering educational alliances grounded in subsidiarity, co-responsibility, and participation, in line with UNESCO’s vision of education as a common good. The Trapani case, which brings together schools, local authorities, and territorial institutions, is analyzed as an innovative model of collaborative governance aimed at reducing school dropout and youth marginalization while strengthening guidance and territorial cohesion. Preliminary findings highlight the political, pedagogical, and organizational implications of this experience, positioning CEPs as replicable instruments of educational and social innovation.