A experiência do rolê na ufjf e o potencial dos roteiros turísticos para a valorização das universidades públicas

Abstract

This work aims to highlight the potential of tourist itineraries in enhancing the value of public universities, which have been significantly impacted by events that shook federal higher education institutions in recent years (2020–2025). To this end, a study was conducted on the “Rolê na UFJF” project, created in 2024 with the purpose of welcoming new students through guided tours of the campus and other spaces in the city managed by the Federal University of Juiz de Fora. These locations offer various services to the community, such as medical and hospital care, educational, cultural, and leisure activities.The research, which is exploratory, descriptive, and qualitative in nature, was carried out through participant observation, interviews with members of the project coordination team, and surveys administered to students who took part in the initiative. The analysis results indicate that the project serves as an effective strategy for welcoming and integrating first-year students, as well as for strengthening their bond with the institution and fostering a sense of belonging. This contributes to students' motivation and engagement with the university, thereby encouraging student retention. The results also confirm the potential of “Rolê na UFJF” to extend its reach beyond the academic community, including the local population and tourists visiting Juiz de Fora. As a tourist itinerary, it could help diversify the city's tourism offerings and, especially, promote the historical, cultural, architectural, and scientific heritage of UFJF, underscoring the importance of public universities for the development of society.