Summary
This research was conducted within the context of the master’s degree in educational administration and management at the Universidade Aberta, under the UNESCO Chair (UnitWin Network) "City that Educates and Transforms” and focuses on the transformative role of the Redes na Quint@-9G project in the Quinta do Alçada social housing neighbourhood in Leiria, developed by Inpulsar - Association for Community Development.
The Redes na Quint@ - E9G project works with children and young people from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds, promoting social inclusion and educational success through participatory practices, artistic and sports activities, and personal development. With the theoretical approach of the UNESCO Chair "The City that Educates and Transforms" in mind, this study aims to explore how this concept materialises in a theoretical approach that views urban space as a pedagogical territory, to understand how local policies and grassroots initiatives, such as the project managed by InPulsar, transform the neighbourhood into an active space of education and social transformation.
Methodologically, the research employed direct observations, interviews, and document analysis, seeking to capture the perceptions of participants and their families regarding the role of the Redes na Quint@ - E9G project in 2024.
The results highlight that the Redes na Quint@ - E9G project plays a crucial role in building an inclusive educational environment, emphasising the importance of community initiatives in areas of social vulnerability. The study concludes that the project represents an innovative model of educational practice that can positively influence local development and the implementation of policies that transform cities into spaces of continuous education and inclusion.