INTERNATIONAL MOBILITY SCHOLARSHIP SYSTEM TO STRENGTHEN SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH IN ECUADOR

The purpose of this study is to design a scholarship system that promotes international mobility among students in Ecuador as a means to not only strengthen scientific research but a culture of service within the higher education sector. The model is based on collaborations between universities and the business sector, enabling students to engage in research internships from the beginning of their academic training. Using a mixed-method approach, the research analyzes current student mobility conditions, benchmarks international co-funded programs, and explores the needs of industry stakeholders. The expected results suggest that research internships enhance knowledge transfer and innovation capacity. The proposed system could serve as a replicable model for other institutions in Ecuador and Latin America, fostering stronger university-industry linkages and academic internationalization.