O espaço, o saber e o pertencer: a presença indígena na Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul (UFFS) - Campus Erechim

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the relationship between architecture, Indigenous student permanence, and the production of belonging within the university space, taking as its central case the proposal of “Nosso Lugar – Centro de Acolhimento e Alternância” at the Federal University of the Southern Frontier (UFFS), Erechim Campus. The study is grounded in the understanding that policies aimed at expanding access to higher education, although essential, become insufficient when they are not accompanied by spatial policies capable of materializing care, listening, and recognition. Within this perspective, the research seeks to understand how architectural space can act as an active instance of experience, participating in the construction of bonds, identity, and conditions for the permanence of Indigenous students in the university. The research adopts a qualitative and interdisciplinary approach, combining bibliographic review, documentary and institutional analysis, reference studies of architectural projects, and an interpretative reading of the empirical case. The theoretical framework brings together authors who discuss space, dwelling, experience, identity, and the production of space, from which analytical categories are developed to support a sensitive reading of the architectural proposal. The results indicate that design choices such as the valorization of courtyards, verandas, collective kitchens, flexible spaces, welcoming materialities, and possibilities for appropriation and personalization contribute to the configuration of architectures that foster greater permanence, recognize differences, and sustain collective ways of living. It is concluded that architecture, rather than merely providing physical support, constitutes a fundamental dimension of Indigenous permanence policies, asserting itself as a means of producing belonging, visibility, and presence within the university space.