University extension and socio-economic impacts in the territories

Abstract

This study deals with the dialogical link between university extension praxis and socio-territorial development. It seeks to analyse, on a local scale, the socioeconomic impacts of extension projects developed by the Fluminense Federal Institute, which aims to boost socioeconomic development, as guaranteed by the law creating Federal Institutes (Law No. 11,892, of 29/12/2008) and other internal regulatory documents (Statutes, Deliberations and Resolutions). To this aim, a case study was developed of the extension project that dialogues with the regional vocation. Interviews were conducted with representatives of the institution involved in the extension action, teachers, students and the community involved. The data allowed us to identify the perception of the subjects of the action regarding the extension project implemented, analysing expectations and demands, in addition to indicating the strengthening of the interaction network between the institution and the demands of the subjects of the action. The results indicate that the extension action has been generating positive social and economic impacts in the territory, meeting the demands of the community and promoting the dissemination of knowledge. However, it was found that it is necessary to adapt the implementation of the extension to better serve society, with closer contact with the population and through long-term planning.