El papel de las redes de cooperación en la gestión del conocimiento para el desarrollo territorial rural en Latinoamérica

Within the framework of sustainable development, some rural territories have achieved competitive advantages from the application of the rural territorial development approach, finding in the formation of cooperation networks for the generation, exchange and application of knowledge the basis for the production of innovations. This aspect has allowed the use of resources, the diversification of the productive fabric, the training of human resources, the strengthening of relations between the different actors of society, the solution of problems and the undertaking of collective projects. This study analyzes the theoretical foundations that support the construction of cooperation networks as a basis for rural territorial development. Methodologically, a documentary review was carried out in the lines of research on rural territorial development, innovation and knowledge networks. The theoretical references show that adequate management of knowledge in rural territories is based on the construction of strategically articulated networks among the different actors that make up the territory, highlighting the role of universities, which, through the fulfillment of their functions, generate the knowledge that the territories demand and guarantee the education and training of human resources. All this implies the creation of synergies between the different actors, as well as the development of research and training processes adjusted to the needs and problems present in the territories. With respect to the functioning of the networks, there is a need to rethink the role of higher education institutions in territorial development, whose performance as promoters of such processes has been seriously questioned in the Region, due to their poor linkage with the environment. Therefore, there is a need to restructure the way in which university functions are carried out in order to promote their articulation so that the university can truly become an actor in territorial development.