Strategic Planning of University Extension Projects: Innovative Application of Business Management Tools to Establish Indicators and Good Practices

Resumo

Strategic planning plays a crucial role in ensuring coherence, sustainability, and impact monitoring in university extension projects. In the public education sector, the adoption of business management tools to organize and evaluate science outreach initiatives remains limited. This study presents the strategic planning process of the 1000 Future Scientists Program, which promotes chemistry education in public schools through low-cost and sustainable experimentation. The methodology integrates three planning tools—SWOT matrix, strategic map, and OKRs—adapted to the context of science education and community engagement. Results highlight how these tools supported the collective definition of objectives, alignment of actions with the program’s mission, and establishment of measurable indicators for teaching and extension. The experience offers a replicable model for other chemistry-focused university extension programs seeking to enhance impact and foster collaboration between academic and basic education.