Higher Education and Scientific Research in El Salvador

Abstract

This article recognizes the urgency and relevance of promoting the development of a National System of Higher Education, Science and Technology (SNESCyT), beyond merely subscribing to regulations governing private and public universities. As a contribution to promote this initiative, we reflect on the role of higher education, science and technology in the socioeconomic development of the country; at the same time, we analyze the relationship between University, State and development and present some synoptic tables, for different historical periods, on the relationship between University, State and Development in El Salvador. Next, some concepts about what can be understood as a SNESCyT are presented, outlining in brief outlines, what the current structure of Higher Education is. As a reference to highlight the contribution of universities to a SNESCyT, the substantive functions of modern universities are developed conceptually, from the perspective of the demands of the knowledge society and the current advances in science and technology.