Extensão universitária em Angola: entre o reconhecimento institucional e os desafios da transformação educacional e social

University extension constitutes one of the pillars of higher education, frequently associated with the promotion of educational and social transformation. In the Angolan context, however, gaps persist in its conceptualization and operationalization. This article critically analyzes the value attributed to university extension in Angola, seeking to understand how institutional actors perceive its role as a vector for educational and social transformation, or whether it remains an unfulfilled institutional promise. The research adopted a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data (n= 211) and qualitative data obtained through questionnaires administered to faculty and students, and interviews conducted with higher education institution managers. The results reveal that, although extension is recognized as a strategic pillar of the university mission, weaknesses persist regarding its institutionalization, funding, and articulation with teaching and research. It is concluded that extension can assume an effectively transformative role when sustained by consistent institutional policies and the active engagement of the academic and social community.