Food and Nutritional (In)security Situation of Indigenous University Students: Challenges and Strategies for Student Retention

Abstract

The objective of this study was to analyze the food and nutritional (in)security situation of indigenous students at a Brazilian public university, considering challenges and strategies for student retention. This is a descriptive exploratory study conducted through the application of an online questionnaire that contains both objective and subjective questions regarding socioeconomic aspects, food practices within and outside the university, food security, university admission, and retention. The qualitative information was systematized through content analysis, and quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Seven students participated in the study. It was observed that indigenous university students have some level of food and nutritional insecurity. The accounts highlight the importance of the University Restaurant in promoting healthy and sustainable food, as well as pointing out the difficulties of remaining

in the institution, such as prejudice, absence of family, and feelings of not belonging. Further studies are needed to broaden and deepen the understanding of the findings, so that the results can support institutional actions promoting adequate, healthy, and sustainable food within the university context.