Abstract

GOMES, Nilma Lino  and  VIEIRA, Sofia Lerche. The University of international integration of the Afro-Brazilian Lusophony: Building a bridge between Brazil and Africa. Rev. Lusófona de Educação [online]. 2013, n.24, pp.75-88. ISSN 1645-7250.

This article discusses issues concerning the creation and implementation of University of International Integration of the Afro-Brazilian Lusophony Countries (UNILAB), one of the most recent federal higher education institutions in Brazil. This multi-campi university is located in two cities of Ceará State (Redenção and Acarape) and one city of Bahia State. Created by Federal Law nº 12.289/2010 its academic activities started in May 25th, 2011 - Africa’s Day. With a mission of building a historical-cultural bridge between Brazil and the Portuguese-speaking Countries Community, UNILAB has solidarity-based cooperation as a principle and a unique political and pedagogical project. It is opened to Brazilian students as well as from partner countries - Angola, Cape Verde, Mozambique, Portugal, São Tomé and Principe and East Timor. Its academic personnel are also from different nationalities. Here are presented reflexions concerning its creation in the recent context of expansion and interiorization of higher education in Brazil, its creation, present situation and challenges.

Keywords : higher education; innovation; solidarity-based cooperation; expansion and internationalization.

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