Agroecology and rural education: challenges of institutionalization in Brazil

ABSTRACT:

Formative practices on Agroecology were started in the late 1970’s in Brazil to counter with the agriculture modernization model. From 2000 onwards, the process of institutionalization gained attention. The purpose of this article is to analyze such formative experiences based on the precepts of rural education and its processes of institutionalization as a public policy. The study was conducted on a qualitative approach, by document analysis and participative observation. Even in counter-hegemonic conditions, several courses have been created at Universities and Federal Institutes in a partnership with social movements. There are challenges posed by institutionalization and risks regarding loss of relationship with its origin social matrix: peasants and their territories.

Keywords:
Rural education; Institutionalization; Agroecology; Peasant agriculture