Desafios e estratégias para a permanência estudantil na graduação: análise das metas do PDI 2020-2024 da Universidade Federal do Sul da Bahia

Abstract

Despite efforts to expand access to higher education, the Federal University of Southern Bahia (UFSB) faces significant challenges in maintaining students enrollment through to degree completion. This research aimed to analyze the challenges faced by UFSB in achieving its undergraduate education goals for 2020-2024, as outlined in the Institutional Development Plan (PDI), with emphasis on identifying and understanding factors influencing student retention and dropout rates. Within the research line of Public Policies: Formulation and Management, this study contributes to the improvement of institutional strategies and educational policies aimed at higher education. This research was conducted using a mixed quali-quantitative approach, with a descriptive investigation strategy and documentary character, based on institutional documents such as the PDI, internal resolutions, academic records, and institutional reports, revealing that several UFSB undergraduate courses presented high dropout and retention rates compared to the PDI 2020-2024 goals. Factors related to program characteristics and student profiles were associated with higher prevalence of dropout and retention in the analyzed programs. The most relevant factors were the form of admission, especially through SISU and degree holders’ admission; admission scores, with different patterns between interdisciplinary and non-interdisciplinary courses; student age, with higher dropout rates among very young and older students; place of origin, with higher dropout rates among students from other states; and academic performance coefficient, with high dropout rates among students with coefficient 0 and, surprisingly, also among those with coefficient between 9 and 10. The analysis allowed the identification of both advances and persistent gaps in achieving the institution’s objectives, pointing to the importance of planning integrated actions that can strengthen students’ academic success in undergraduate programs. The relevance of this research lies in the comprehensive analysis of dropout and retention in a newly established federal university, offering valuable insights for institutions in similar contexts. Practical contributions include proposing six strategic recommendations for improving institutional indicators of student retention, with potential organizational impacts on university management and the despigmentável of qualified professionals. This work is expected to inform the development of more effective educational policies and the improvement of academic management practices.