UNIVERSITY OF BRASÍLIA, WHAT FOR? AND FOR WHOM? A STUDY ON AFFIRMATIVE ACTIONS FOR BLACKS IN THE GRADUATE PROGRAM IN LAW – UNB

Abstract

This article reports on the implementation of affirmative actions within the scope of graduate programs at the University of Brasilia (Federal District), in particular, the case of the Graduate Program in Law (PPGD-UnB). The objective was to learn about the possible effects and impacts of the implementation of affirmative actions in this Program. To this end, the data from the PPGD-UnB selection process were analyzed in order to identify how affirmative actions took place in the 2017 selection process. As a methodological procedure, an exhaustive documentary analysis of the Selective Processes, Acts, Resolutions and Records of the PPGD took place. The study also included semi-structured interviews with teachers, students and technicians who are part of the process. It was possible to verify that there is an intrinsic relationship between affirmative actions and student assistance, and that there is no way to disconnect affirmative policies and access and permanence actions. The research showed paths and mishaps in access, and also the fundamental role that social demand scholarships play for the continuity of blacks and indigenous people in graduate school, both guaranteeing the basic conditions for students to develop their research, as well as supplying the deficiency of a student assistance policy that meets this level of education. The data also showed that, despite the advances, the objective of affirmative actions in graduate school to guarantee entry and expand the representation of black students in the Program has not been achieved as expected. Black candidates have been approved with high marks that place them in the universal system, with this, a significant part of the vacancies destined to quota students has not been occupied with other black candidates. It is understood that this was a finding to be considered and monitored, as it hinders that the policy objective, which is to increase the number of blacks in graduate school, does not materialize to its full potential. It is necessary to evaluate the reasons, and if necessary, preparatory courses for entering graduate school.