Decolonial Education and the teaching of social sciences. The creation on the afro-brazilian studies center for teaching Sociology (NEABES)

Abstract

The current research examines some of the challenges faced by the African Countries of Portuguese Official Language (PALOPs) in consolidating Sociology as a relevant area of knowledge, both in the university and school settings. The justification lies in the lack of studies on African Sociology and the scarce cooperation between Brazil and these countries in this field of knowledge. Initially, I point out the historical importance of the trajectory of the institutionalization of Sociology Teaching in Brazil. In PALOPs, both the university and this area of knowledge are new and lack institutionalization. The lack of investment in education by the State, the precarious structure, and the difficulties of academic cooperation make the process even more challenging. As a hypothetical-deductive methodology, some of the scarce bibliographies on the subject will be used, as well as structured and semi-structured interviews with African professors and students. The results show that there is great potential for cooperation between countries and a mutual willingness to know what is produced academically. The initiatives already developed indicate the possibility of positive exchanges between professors, researchers, students, and policy makers. In conclusion, the article highlights that Sociology has an important role to play in Africa. Brazil is seen as a major partner in the academic field but of little relevance in its potential.