The Future of the Countryside: a Study on the Permanence, Profile and Motivations of Rural Young People During UFV Farmer's Week/2024

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the profile and motivations of young people who participated in Rural Youth Week at the Federal University of Viçosa (UFV). Theoretical Framework: This topic presents the main concepts and theories that support the research. The Rural Youth Week held during UFV Farmers' Week in 2024 stands out, providing a solid basis for understanding the context of the investigation. Method: The methodology adopted for this research involves semi-structured interviews with 28 young people who participated in UFV Rural Youth Week in 2024, 14 of whom were male and 14 female. Results and Discussion: The results obtained revealed that the permanence of young people in the countryside is related to the continuity of agricultural activities and the renewal of rural communities. Despite the migration to cities in search of better opportunities, the combination of technology, innovation, and incentives for income generation can reverse this process. The introduction of new tools and knowledge can make rural work more attractive to young people. Possible discrepancies and limitations of the study are also considered in this section. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research are discussed, providing insights into how the results can be applied or influence practices in the field of public policy. These implications may include the permanence of young people in rural areas, in addition to contributing to the UN 2030 Agenda with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDGs 2, 4, 8, 10 and 12. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by expanding knowledge about the expectations and motivations of rural young people. The relevance and value of this research are evidenced by presenting the challenges to be faced for the permanence of young people in rural areas.