2025 Award "Best Practice in Citizen Participation"

“Works with a Pedagogical Purpose” methodology of the Bogotá District Institute for Participation and Community Action (IDPAC) is a participatory approach that seeks not only to execute public works, but also to strengthen the community through learning and collaboration. Its main virtue is that it encourages the active participation of citizens in the design, execution and monitoring of projects, which has a positive impact on both the infrastructure and the development of community skills.

Among its achievements is the improvement of parks and community public spaces, which directly benefit the population. In addition, it has managed to raise awareness of the importance of citizen participation, empowering residents to get involved in decision-making about their environment. The methodology has also trained new community leaders who seek to ensure that the community takes ownership of and validates different democratic processes, who replicate what they have learned with the Works with Pedagogical Balance, generating more inclusive spaces and strengthening autonomy and territorial sustainability.

The pedagogical approach has enabled the strengthening of capacities in management, leadership and teamwork, generating a more solid participatory culture. In short, Works with a Pedagogical Purpose has transformed the way in which communities approach local projects, generating long-term benefits in terms of infrastructure, social cohesion and citizen participation.

• https://www.participacionbogota.gov.co/chikana?field_clasificacion_vigencia_chi_target_id=343  (External link)
• Presentation (PDF) (External link)