Co-producing sustainable water governance: The role of university extension in the Babitonga Basin, Brazil

Historically, by bridging the gap between academic knowledge and community practices, university extension (UE) has been instrumental in promoting social transformation. This work initially highlights the strategic role that UE plays in connecting teaching, research, and community engagement by placing it within its historical trajectory. From its beginnings in Oxford in the middle of the nineteenth century to its institutionalization in Brazil. Subsequently, the importance of extension in the field of water resource management has been evidenced. The methodology includes the application of questionnaires sent to all 239 Brazilian River Basin Committees for the analysis of Brazilian university extension reports, professors curriculum vitae, and projects. Finally, interviews with current and past management presidents of the Babitonga River Basin Committee, to spot how UE is linked to the Babitonga River Basin Committee's experience. How it has influenced the creation and execution of public policies pertaining to Brazil's water resources. The findings show that UE initiatives not only advance knowledge democratization and participatory governance but also enhance the ability of civil society and public institutions to address water management challenges. Additionally, they aid in the education of scholars and students who are actively involved in environmental governance procedures. The Babitonga River Basin Committee serves as an example of how UE can be a driving force behind governance techniques, bringing local projects into alignment with more general sustainability objectives. The work evidences that UE is a powerful tool for strengthening democratic and sustainable approaches to water governance as well as furthering universities' social integration.