Governance in Universities: the Mechanism of Leadership and the Experience of the Federal University of Sergipe

Objective: To analyze the need to consolidate governance systems in Federal Universities, highlighting leadership as an essential pillar and using the Federal University of Sergipe (UFS) as a reference. Theoretical Framework: The research is grounded in the concepts of public governance as described in Decree No. 9,203/2017 and the guidelines of the Federal Court of Accounts (TCU). Leadership is emphasized as a central element. Within the context of federal universities, the study examines the impact of governance on the interaction with institutional autonomy, while addressing challenges and innovations in the field, such as the experience of the Federal University of Sergipe (UFS). Method: A document analysis of key governance and management documents from Brazilian federal universities was conducted, with a focus on the Federal University of Sergipe. The UFS document analysis covered a time frame of eight years. The results were organized into categories. Results and Discussion: The research identified significant advances in the governance of the Federal University of Sergipe (UFS). The findings show improvements in performance indicators, aligned with the guidelines of Decree No. 9,203/2017 and the TCU. Nevertheless, challenges remain. The proposal of a research agenda underscores the need to deepen the discussion and explore new solutions. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research include consolidating governance systems as a reference for strengthening public university management. Originality/Value: The research contributes to the formulation of guidelines and replicable models for other federal universities, fostering greater institutional cohesion and alignment with public policies.