NEA Arandu - IFES Campus Santa Teresa

The NEA Arandu, based at Ifes Santa Teresa, operates within a 75-year-old conventional agricultural education system. However, its efforts have significantly contributed to making agroecology more visible and strengthening its presence both on campus and within the institution. Without this initiative, agroecology risked being reduced to just another subject in the curriculum of the Technical Course in Agriculture and the Agronomy degree. The NEA prioritizes technological extension, integrating teaching and research in areas mainly related to plant production. Internally, it supports research projects, theses, and dissertations focused on environmental education and strategies to enhance the sustainability of small rural properties. Externally, it has played a key role in shaping state agroecology policies and is recognized for its collaboration with civil society organizations and government bodies at the municipal and state levels.

Spanning approximately 8 hectares, the NEA Arandu maintains various demonstration units crucial for agroecological education, including an agroforestry system, organic sheep farming, traditional vegetable cultivation, a medicinal and green manure plant collection, a syntropic garden, and a seed bank. The site also continuously produces alternative agricultural inputs such as organic compost, biofertilizers, vermicompost, effective microorganisms (EM), plant extracts, protective preparations, and green manure. These resources support teaching, research, and outreach activities for faculty and students. The NEA Arandu was instrumental in establishing ASTRAL, the first agroecology association in Santa Teresa, and continues to provide assistance, training, and logistical support for farmers, particularly in commercializing their products.

Since 2011, NEA Arandu has held a seat on the CPOrg-ES, actively contributing to the development of state agroecology policies. It also participates in the Espírito Santo Forum for Combating the Impacts of Pesticides and GMOs, initiated by the State Public Prosecutor's Office. As the oldest NEA in Espírito Santo, it plays a leadership role in fostering the creation of new NEAs across Ifes campuses. Through its support, NEAs have been established in Ibatiba, Alegre, and a joint initiative covering Itapina, Colatina, and Centro-Serrano. The goal is to strengthen these units as a network and eventually establish a Vocational Technology Center for Agroecology at Ifes.

The NEA Arandu envisions a future where agroecology is deeply embedded in education, research, and extension, transforming the agricultural landscape of Ifes and beyond. It strives to expand its network of NEAs across all campuses, strengthening collaboration and knowledge exchange to build a robust agroecological movement. A key aspiration is the creation of a Vocational Technology Center for Agroecology, serving as a hub for innovation, farmer training, and sustainable rural development. The NEA also dreams of influencing public policies at broader scales, ensuring agroecological principles guide agricultural practices and food systems. By fostering partnerships with farmers, researchers, and policymakers, it aims to create resilient, self-sustaining communities that prioritize environmental health, food sovereignty, and social justice.