The project aims to promote rural development in the semi-arid region of northern Minas Gerais by training farmers, students, and technicians in agroecological practices. Through scientific research, technological extension, and professional education, the project seeks to enhance and value agroecological production techniques used by family farmers. It also focuses on creating a network to disseminate knowledge about organic systems based on agroecology. Key to this effort are the Núcleos de Estudos em Agroecologia e Produção Orgânica (NEA) located in Almenara, Araçuaí, Arinos, and Januária—campuses of the Instituto Federal do Norte de Minas Gerais (IFNMG)—as well as the Núcleo PPJ (ICA/UFMG). These centers have been working with rural communities since the establishment of the Federal Institutes, refining teaching methods and fostering collaboration among the NEAs and Núcleo PPJ to strengthen agroecological education and knowledge sharing.

The project emphasizes productive inclusion by promoting the PAIS (Produção Agroecológica Integrada e Sustentável) model, a social technology inspired by small farmers who practice sustainable agriculture. This approach uses native seeds, traditional farming techniques, and avoids toxic inputs, prioritizing environmental conservation. Social management is another key aspect, as the project values the role of family farmer organizations. Through the NEAs, farmers are increasingly engaging with academic spaces at the IFNMG, bringing real community needs to the forefront of teaching, research, and extension activities. This exchange allows the IFNMG to fulfill its social mission and democratize education for rural populations.

The main activities of the project include the dissemination of agroecological knowledge through the NEAs and the network of agroecology study centers. Professional education focuses on agroecological training for students in technical and higher education programs, such as Agriculture and Agronomy, as well as capacity-building for family farmers and regional technicians. Applied research involves setting up experiments to refine and promote the PAIS technology, adapting it to regional conditions. By integrating teaching, research, and extension, the project strengthens agroecology as a sustainable and inclusive model for rural development in the semi-arid north of Minas Gerais.