Análise exploratória da percepção dos discentes sobre a inclusão das práticas de ESG na formação profissional de engenharia: um estudo de caso na UFRN

Abstract

The objective of this article is to investigate the preparation of engineers who have graduated or are currently studying at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN) in the practices of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). Initially, the importance of ESG practices as a counterbalance to the negative impact of global economic development processes is presented. The general objective of the study is then identified, which is to identify the challenges and opportunities faced by new engineers and higher education institutions (IESs) in relation to the new profile of Brazilian engineers, following the new guidelines established by the new National Curricular Guidelines (DCNs). Additionally, the specific objectives are presented as follows: (I) Analyze whether the curriculum of engineering courses at UFRN encourages the adoption of ESG practices; (II) Administer a structured questionnaire to obtain data on ESG and competencies of new engineers in the market; (III) Measure and analyze significant changes in pedagogical practices to include ESG; (IV) Investigate which competencies established by the new DCNs professionals consider most important for fully engaging in ESG practices; (V) Develop and illustrate an action plan to enhance pedagogical practices in teaching, research, and extension, enabling a greater impact of ESG for all stakeholders. Through a structured questionnaire, verification of changes in educational practices related to ESG at UFRN, and research on competencies established in the DCNs, it was verified whether the curriculum profiles of UFRN engineering programs are aligned with the skills required to engage in ESG practices in the job market. This research is justified by the increasing importance of environmental, social, and governance issues in the global community and the need for professionals skilled in this area. The study follows the ABNT standard and is divided into chapters including introduction, references, methodology, results, and final discussion. It is expected that the research will help improve the readiness of engineers and enable a greater impact of ESG practices in the professional market.