Charitable contributions to educational institutions fall under the category of discretionary responsibility. Let's understand each option to see why this is the correct answer:

a) Legal responsibility: Legal responsibilities are obligations that organizations must fulfill in order to comply with laws and regulations. While educational institutions may have legal obligations in terms of finances, reporting, and governance, providing charitable contributions is not a legal requirement.

b) Economic responsibility: Economic responsibility refers to an organization's obligation to make a profit and contribute to economic growth. While educational institutions need to manage their finances effectively and generate revenue to sustain their operations, providing charitable contributions goes beyond their economic responsibilities.

c) Discretionary responsibility: Discretionary responsibility refers to voluntary actions taken by organizations that are not mandated by law or economic obligations but are considered socially responsible. Charitable contributions to educational institutions fall under this category. Companies and individuals choose to make such contributions to support educational initiatives, scholarships, research, infrastructure development, and other educational activities.

Explanation:
- Charitable contributions to educational institutions are not legally mandated or required by economic responsibilities.
- Organizations and individuals have the freedom to decide whether or not to provide such contributions.
- These contributions are considered discretionary because they go beyond legal and economic obligations.
- They demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility and investment in education for the betterment of society.
- Charitable contributions can have a significant impact on educational institutions, enabling them to enhance their programs, facilities, and opportunities for students.

In conclusion, providing charitable contributions to educational institutions is a discretionary responsibility. While organizations and individuals are not legally or economically obligated to make these contributions, they choose to do so to support educational initiatives and contribute to the betterment of society.