The Process of Inclusion in Higher Education of the Beca 18 Program in Vulnerable Populations of Huanuco, Peru

Abstract

The objective of this research is to analyze the situation of the young beneficiaries of the Social Program called Beca 18, not only its percentage of admission but, above all, the factors that determine that some of its beneficiaries decide to drop out. It is a study based on basic research, in which inductive and deductive methods with sequential design were used, as well as documentary analysis techniques together with observation, interviews, and surveys. The sample consisted of young beneficiaries of the program who are studying in public or private Universities or Technological Institutes in the Department of Huanuco. The results showed that 62% of the beneficiaries came from agricultural areas and the rest from working families and/or informal workers. In terms of academic performance, 15% stated that they needed academic reinforcement. On the other hand, concerning the development in social spaces of higher education, 34% state that they have been victims of marginalization for cultural reasons; 44% affirm that there is marginalization based on economic position; and 26% express feelings of not belonging to the university social group. Finally, 68% of beneficiaries indicate that there are scholarship recipients who did not complete their professional careers. Based on these figures, this research concludes by indicating that, although the purpose of the Beca 18 Program is to promote the continuation of higher education for young people with few resources and in a state of vulnerability, it is not enough since it does not intervene in aspects such as social inclusion (inequality, marginalization, and belonging) and the interculturality of the beneficiaries, which encourages them to drop out of university.