Estudo da representatividade feminina nos cursos presenciais de formação de professores das ciências naturais : o caso da UFS

Abstract

This study examines female representation in on-campus undergraduate teaching programs in Natural Sciences (Biological Sciences, Physics, and Chemistry) at the Federal University of Sergipe (UFS), within the context of the expansion of higher education into the interior of Brazil and the historical and social transformations in Brazilian education. Aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 (Quality Education) and 5 (Gender Equality), the research used census data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) and institutional records from UFS from 2006 to 2022. Patterns of enrollment, retention, dropout, and completion were analyzed across the Itabaiana and São Cristóvão campuses, focusing on the challenges faced by women in teacher training. The results indicate progress in female representation, particularly at the Itabaiana campus, where the expansion into the interior contributed to greater inclusion. However, persistent challenges remain, such as the need for stronger student assistance policies and the overcoming of gender stereotypes. The study concludes that, although UFS has promoted greater equity, achieving full gender equality in higher education requires integrated policies for inclusion, retention, and addressing structural inequalities. The research underscores the importance of aligning public policies with the SDGs to ensure quality and equitable education, essential for sustainable development and social justice.