Capacidade absortiva (ACAP) na gestão universitária: uma análise nos programas de iniciação científica e tecnológica em uma IFES

Abstract

Absorptive Capacity (ACAP) is an important organizational capability related to the acquisition, assimilation, transformation, and application of external knowledge. Within Federal Higher Education Institutions (FHEIs), these processes play a fundamental role in strengthening scientific and technological research. Thus, this study aimed to analyze how 4 absorptive capacity is developed in the university management of a Federal Higher Education Institution through its Scientific and Technological Initiation Programs. The research is characterized as qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory. Data were collected through semi structured interviews with seven members of the Institutional Committee for Scientific Initiation Programs (CIPIC) at the Federal University of Paraíba (UFPB) and subsequently analyzed using content analysis supported by ATLAS.ti software. The findings indicate that absorptive capacity is developed through practices of searching for, sharing, adapting, and applying scientific knowledge involving different institutional actors. The dimensions of acquisition, assimilation, transformation, and exploitation were identified throughout the research process. However, the effective application of knowledge is constrained by limitations related to infrastructure, financial resources, and access to external information. It is concluded that UFPB has institutional mechanisms that foster the development of absorptive capacity; however, its strengthening depends on greater investment, stronger integration among researchers, and the consolidation of institutional strategies focused on knowledge management and innovation.