Resgate da história de implantação do Centro de Atenção Integral à Criança Paulo Dacorso Filho na UFRRJ e a perspectiva de sua transformação em um centro de ensino e pesquisa aplicado à educação agroecológica

Abstract

In 1992 the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ acronym in Portuguese) decided to implement a Centre for Child and Youth Support (CAIC acronym in Portuguese) aiming to support children of Seropedica community and UFRRJ’s bachelor students. This Centre was part of a broader project of the Federal Government (presidential decree 539/92) to promote joint activities of education, health, social support and assistantship to children, youth and their inclusion in society. This master study used qualitative primary data (semi-structured interviews) and secondary data (official documents) to analyze the historic implementation process of CAIC Paulo Dacorso Filho (1994-1997) and propose its conversion into a Centre for Education and Research Applied to Agroecology Studies, managed unilaterally by UFRRJ. Key themes were identified: educational context in the 1980’s and 1990’s; decentralization process in Brazil; main ‘integral school’ programs in the 1980’s and 1990’s; ‘integral education’ and agroecology. These themes were selected due to its relevance for this study. Key findings suggest that tripartite management model hindered the working of CAIC Paulo Dacorso Filho due to changes in the state and local governments; and due to confronting pedagogical differences with UFRRJ’s proposal. For example intermittent supply of school meals; high replacement of teachers interrupted their ongoing training; constant reduced wage of state staff; among others. This master study proposes that the aims and guidelines of the Centre for Education and Research Applied to Agroecology Studies be aligned with the interests of the UFRRJ. To this effect, agroecology must underpin Education, Research and Extension curricular activities. This study also proposes that this educational unit be a locus of training for local and state government’s teachers; as well as an additional practical field to train UFRRJ’s bachelor students. Finally, this centre will provide the community a quality educational program and will contribute to build up critical judgment and to reduce social inequality.