EngageComp - A Framework for Student Civic Engagement

Making Civic Engagement Competences Visible and Recognisable

This report introduces the EngageComp (Student Civic Engagement Competences) framework as a competence framework for student civic engagement, developed through a systematic literature review, cross-analysis of existing frameworks, and qualitative interviews and focus groups across different European contexts. It outlines competences that emerge through student civic engagement and offers practical guidance in addressing these and has been developed within the EngageAll initiative.

The framework organises 21 competences within three domains - Individual context: Personal Growth & Self-Development; Practice context: Application & Problem-Solving; Societal context: Collaboration & Social Responsibility - and defines Civic and Democratic Competence as an overarching outcome evidenced across domains. For higher education providers, policy makers, and civic partners, the report offers a coherent and usable architecture for designing, supporting, and recognising student civic engagement.

Context and Purpose:
Civic engagement is essential for strengthening democratic societies, fostering active citizenship, and promoting social cohesion. Higher education institutions have a pivotal role in supporting students to engage actively in civic and community activities, enhancing both their personal and professional competences. Student civic engagement activities strengthen students’ ability to take socially responsible action, contribute to positive social change, and participate actively in democratic societies. Despite this potential, competence gained through student civic engagement remains underdeveloped, particularly in Professional Higher Education (PHE). The EngageAll Project addresses this gap by developing an inclusive competence-based approach that creates structured opportunities for participation across institutional initiatives, local community projects, and wider societal challenges, and supports institutions to foster broader, more inclusive active citizenship.

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