CURRICULAR INTEGRATION OF EXTENSION ACTIVITIES IN UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS AT A HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTION IN SÃO PAULO

Abstract

This article is intended to discuss the implementation of extension curricularization in a Higher Education Institution (HEI) in non-metropolitan cities of São Paulo, focusing on the integration of university extension into the curricula of undergraduate courses. This integration is based on CNE/CES Resolution nº 7 of 2018, and reflects a demand to reframe the university curriculum, aligning it with the needs of society and the professional requirements of the world of work. The study emphasizes the role of extension in strengthening the relationship between university and society, promoting effective dialogue that reaches beyond institutional walls. The extension is seen as an essential element that, together with teaching and research, constitutes the tripod of academic activities, offering students practical experiences and opportunities to develop relevant skills. The research methodology, with a qualitative approach, relies on the analysis of documents and official records of HEI courses and reveals the advances and challenges in integrating extension into curricula. Reflection on the curriculum is a central point, addressing the need for more comprehensive training in order to address social demands and provide students with multifaceted skills to face the challenges of the world of work. The conclusions suggest that the implementation of extension actions can be applied to HEIs and, furthermore, it is an essential step towards innovation in higher education through interdisciplinarity, democratization and humanization of knowledge.