Access and retention of Indigenous students at the National University of Asunción: Analysis of the UNA-INDI agreement 2008-2023
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.30545/academo.2026.n2.1447Keywords:
Higher education, Indigenous peoples, educational inclusion, Paraguay, access policiesAbstract
This study documents the implementation of the agreement between the National University of Asunción and the National Indigenous Institute to facilitate access for Indigenous students to public higher education in Paraguay. Through the analysis of institutional records from the 2008-2023 period and an exploratory survey of 62 Indigenous students, access patterns, retention, and perceived difficulties are examined. Institutional records show that out of 1,249 places historically offered, 131 were reserved and 94 were effectively used, representing a 71.8% occupation rate. Beneficiaries come mainly from Alto Paraguay (39.4%), Boquerón (28.7%), and Presidente Hayes (12.8%). The exploratory survey reveals that 82.5% of the consulted students do not perceive significant difficulties, with the main reported barriers being access to information (18.0%) and problems with teachers (17.0%). The findings suggest that the agreement constitutes an effective access mechanism, although structural challenges related to economic sustainability and ongoing academic support persist.
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