Honrar as raizes é plantar as sementes para um novo reflorestar : trajetórias de permanência, movimentos de resistência e contracolonialidade de estudantes indígenas na Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais

Abstract

This dissertation, developed within the Graduate Program in Psychology, explores the experiences of Indigenous students in the Supplemental Admission Program for Undergraduate Studies at UFMG, focusing on their resistance movements and strategies for academic persistence. The study is justified by the need to improve affirmative action policies at the university, ensuring a more inclusive and equitable environment for Indigenous peoples. The central objective of the research was to reflect on and engage in dialogue with these students about their experiences and, based on this, systematize strategies to strengthen institutional policies for access and retention. To achieve this, the study adopted an intervention-research methodology, conducting weekly group workshops with Indigenous students from the Supplemental Admission Program at the Federal University of Minas Gerais in 2024, as well as narrative interviews with four professors involved in affirmative action policies for Indigenous students at UFMG. The results revealed that the presence of Indigenous students in the university significantly contributes to its transformation, making it a more diverse and accessible space. As a key contribution, a recommendation letter was developed with suggestions for improving student retention policies, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to inclusion and equity in higher education.