When relational capabilities walk in education for sustainability scenario

Abstract

Since higher education institutions are considered relevant catalysts in the formation of future business leaders, the concern for sustainability issues can take place in such institutions through the so-called Education for Sustainability. However, there are challenges higher education institutions face to implement it, as well as facilitating elements to overcome such challenges. In this scenario, this paper highlights the importance partnerships have, as facilitating elements, in all fronts needed to overcome challenges for education for sustainability’s implementation in higher education institutions. Also, the role relational capabilities play as key-element for the success of partnership development is proposed. Thus, a Proposition is developed, as well as a conceptual framework for overcoming challenges for the implementation of education for sustainability in such institutions, considering the relevance of using the relational capabilities’ perspective to better comprehend and develop partnerships for education for sustainability in higher education institutions. This paper’s originality consists in filling a gap in the literature of this research domain, since there are no studies that discuss Education for Sustainability and Relational Capabilities, jointly. It is expected that this paper provides relevant insights regarding the importance of developing the dimensions of relational capabilities to increase the chances of success of partnerships between higher education institutions and other actors with which they relate.