vol. 14 núm. 22 (2007): enero - junio

An analysis about the concepts of human development and competitiveness as well as the inseparable relationship between them as an organic loop are the initial issues in this article. To achieve competitiveness, human development is crucial and, reciprocally, to achieve human development, competitiveness is quintessential. Then, the current situation of development and competitiveness in the Colombian Coffee growing Zone is presented, followed by the topic concerning indicators and competitiveness as well as theircurrent trends. Finally, a series of hypotheses and leading questions is presented with the aim to propose the elaboration of a joint agenda dealing with the quality of life of the Coffee Growing Zone inhabitants and regional competitiveness.

This writing has a double aim. On one hand, it aims at talking about the role that civil participation may play in the construction of the Educating City; on the other hand, it aims at contributing, if possible, with some methodological elements that be useful in its construction. Nevertheless, all aspects expressed here with reference to the participative dimension about the educating city are considered within a wider conceptual and argumentative framework, that will be presented in a very concise way.