A ASSISTÊNCIA ESTUDANTIL COMO POLÍTICA SOCIAL NO CONTEXTO DA UFPEL: CONCEPÇÕES, LIMITES E POSSIBILIDADES

Abstract

This paper is the result of a study undertaken from 2009-2010 to analyze the perspectives of the residents of the Casa do Estudante (CEU) [Students‟ Home dormitory] at UFPel, about student assistance policies of the Federal University at Pelotas. It particularly focuses on students who participate in housing, transport and meal programs. Qualitative research was conducted, guided by a critical dialectical perspective. The research was conducted with 64 residents of the Student‟s Home at UFPel, corresponding to 30% of the residents. The principal tool was a semi-structured interview. The results indicate: the research subjects affirm that the student assistance programs represent a good opportunity to remain at the university and conclude college. Without the assistance they would not be able to finish. The students affirm that the programs are inclusionary policies that allow them to feel supported because of access to the university and new opportunities for social, political, cultural and intellectual ascension. They believe that the social assistants responsible for the programs need more time for interaction with the users. References were identified in the statements referring to the expansion of student housing, and the construction of another student house, something that they see to be a remote possibility. They emphasize that there should be an increase in the number of buffets and a reduction in the number of students in the lines at the university restaurant so that students can return to their activities more quickly. They support the need to expand the student assistance policies and the number of openings in the program due to the increase in the number of openings at UFPel. Most characterize student assistance as a form of help and support, while emphasizing that it is a responsibility of the State, a social right of students to remain inserted in a public university and conclude their courses