PRACTICAL COURSE: SYNTROPIC AGROFORESTRY AT UFAL

Abstract

The work describes the implementation of a syntropic Agroforestry System (SAF) at the Alagoana University Residence (R.U.A) of the Federal University of Alagoas (UFAL) in Maceió, Brazil. The main objective of the project was to promote sustainability, the production of healthy foods and the dissemination of knowledge in the areas of Agroecology, Agronomy and Forestry Engineering. The work was linked to the thematic area of University Extension and involved students, teachers, and the local community . The methodology applied included a three-day practical course on syntropic agroforestry, taught by experts from UFAL and IFAL in partnership with institutional bodies, the course covered everything from the production of organic inputs to the assembly of irrigation systems and the planting of trees, shrubs and agricultural crops, a management calendar was created to maintain the SAF, with the active participation of people from the academic and external community. Eight months after implementation included notable growth in plantations, with impressive growth averages in banana, papaya and timber species. The course had a high response rate, demonstrating the demand for environmental initiatives, and the post-course management calendar contributed to maintaining the connection between the academic community and the local population. The project achieved its objectives by creating a practical learning environment, promoting the production of healthy food and encouraging sustainability at UFAL, in addition, it showed the potential for expanding knowledge beyond the limits of the university and strengthened the connection between students and the community , indicating a promising future in terms of self-sustainability in food production by UFAL. 

Keywords: extension, urban agriculture, university residence.