Assessing quality and social responsibility in higher education institutions in Angola

Background/purpose. Education is a complex process, so higher education institutions (HEIs) must be increasingly aware of the importance of improving the quality of their various activities. Higher education is one of the crucial elements of the global education system, which must be flexible, diverse, effective, and in tune with the needs of the economy and knowledge. The study was developed in the IV Academic Region of Angola and attempted to assess the Quality and Social Responsibility of public higher education institutions. Materials/methods. Quantitative research methodology. Case Study using a questionnaire survey with closed questions. Population: students, employees and teachers of the HEIs of the IV Academic Region of Angola. Sample: Students (n=447), employees (n=131) and teachers (n=62) participated in the study, totaling 640 individuals. Results. The results determined that the dimension of Social Responsibility of Higher Education Institutions, best evaluated was the “Research” (média = 2,93) dimension and the least considered was “Structures” (média = 2,72), and that teachers significantly identify this dimension more in the educational institutions where they work, than staff or students. These results emphasize the need for strategic reforms to improve infrastructure and promote civic responsibility in Angola's HEIs. Conclusion. Higher Education reforms in Angola should prioritize quality promotion through strategic intervention in four key areas: 1. Strengthening vision and legal frameworks; 2. Improving resources; 3. Fostering academic activities; 4. Expanding access. These reforms align with promoting civic values and ethical professional practices, which are vital for societal and institutional management.