Resumen de University Extension Beyond the Educational Axis: Contributions and Challenges for the Empowerment Process of the Working Classes in Brazil

Yara Dias Fernandes, Graziana Donata Punzi de Siqueira

• Objective: The objective of this article is to identify the contributions and challenges of the University Extension to the process of empowerment of the popular classes in Brazil.

    Theoretical Reference: The authors studied point to the possibility of the University Extension proposing dialogs and transformations between the university and various sectors of society (Soares, 2011). Maciel (2010) clarifies that the University Extension contributes to the approximation of the university with society, which contributes to the democratization of knowledge and development of the critical sense of the population. However, there are still challenges and difficulties regarding the implementation of the extensionist actions, both in relation to the implementation of the actions, as well as the continuity of the proposals developed.

    Design/Methodology/Approach: We research and study the articles on University Extension, from its genesis to the present day. A survey of articles on education in the capitalist society model was also carried out. The research was carried out from academic sites and periodicals.

    Results: Although there is a significant contribution of the University Extension to the process of empowerment of the popular classes in Brazil, there are still difficulties as to the continuous and effective execution in this process. Both as regards long-term actions, as well as the impact of the contradictions that exist in this model of society, which still persists inequalities, injustices and arbitrariness.

    Research, Practical and Social Implications: We suggest researches and in-depth studies on the theme, that make possible strategies for the Extension dialog with the community and be effective in a continuous and democratic manner.

    Originality/Value: The studies point to significant importance of the University Extension in terms of a dialogical relationship with society, as well as collaboration in the process of empowerment of the popular classes in Brazil.