A Contribuição dos Núcleos de Estudos em Agroecologia (NEAs) para o ensino, Pesquisa e Extensão em Instituições no Nordeste Paraense

Abstract

This study aims to reflect on the contribution of the study nuclei in agroecology in the state of Pará to the teaching-research-extension processes in teaching and research institutions in northeast of Pará. We based our study on principles of agroecology, sustainable development, the construction of agroecological knowledge and the indissociability between teaching-research-extension. We conducted the research in four nuclei of agroecology studies: NEA IFPA-Castanhal, NEA Ajuri-UFPA Belém, NEA UFRA-Capitão Poço and NEA Puxirum Agroecological-Embrapa Eastern Amazon. We carried out the research in four nuclei of studies in agroecology, using a qualitative approach supported by bibliographical research, documentary research, field research, semi-structured interviews and the use of the questionnaire. As a result, we inferred that the nuclei of studies in agroecology have been developing relevant actions around the process of construction of agroecological knowledge in northeastern Pará, reflecting also in other territories of the state. The nuclei of studies in agroecology present significant efforts to carry out the inseparable processes between teaching, research and extension. With different institutional characteristics, the nuclei of studies in agroecology are constituted in spaces of debate on the principles of agroecology and they function as important tools for the articulation between academic scientific knowledge and the knowledge of the communities and peoples of the field.