The public university in neoliberal and fascist scenarios: “shambles” of resistance in times of Covid-19

Abstract

The article on screen seeks to map the babblings of resistance developed by Brazilian public universities in pandemic scenarios. It raises the following provocative questions: what neo-liberal and fascist speeches and attacks have been brought about by Bolsonarism? In view of these speeches, what are the babblings of resistance being developed by public universities? And, what are the contributions of Brazilian public universities in pandemic scenarios? Were carried out a mapping of neoliberal and fascist speeches managed by Bolsonarism, whose effects can be seen in attacks on universities, and a mapping of the teaching, research and extension actions developed by Brazilian public universities during the pandemic. It uses the cartographic method and brings as devices for producing information from official documents, academic and journalistic articles, online events, lives and scientific research developed by universities in Covid-19 scenarios. In this cartography, the babblings of teaching, extension and research emerged. It suggests that Brazilian public universities have been suffering continuous budget cuts and privatist policies, leaving their operating conditions increasingly precarious, in addition to the constant attacks guided by neoliberal and fascist logics, widely practiced by the majority of Bolsonarist interlocutors. It also points out that despite the attacks suffered, there is a permanent work of resistance to the neoliberal and fascist conceptions and practices that find shelter and are spreading under the Bolsonaro government. It reveals the commitment of public universities to policies of social inclusion, production and dissemination of knowledge, in addition to actions to prevent and minimize the social impacts of the pandemic.