TSUPPORT PROTOCOLS FOR STUDENTS WITHSPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS DUE TO SOCIOEMOTIONAL VULNERABILITY AT UNACH

Abstract

This research is based on the need to provide structured support to students with especial educatiional needs associated with socioemotional vulnerability in a university context, the main objective was to créate pathways and protocols to ensure effective support at the National University of Chimborazo (UNACH). A mixed methods approch was employed, combining qualitative tolos, such as interviews with key informants, an quantitative data análisis to gain a comprehensive understanding of the issue. The results revealed the lack of specific protocols at the institution and high prevalence of cases related to anxiety and depression among students, additionally, 100% of participants lacked a prior formal mental health diagnosis, highligthing underdiagnosis and limited acces to specialized services, including detection, diagnosis, intervention, and follow-up phases, along with reasonable academic accommodations. In conclusion, this study emphasizes the urgent need to implement inclusive strategies that address students´emotional and academic needs, promoting their well-being and academic success. The findings underscore the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and development of robust institutional policies to address this emerging reality in higher education.