The Federal Institute of São Paulo (IFSP) has launched a new initiative called Partiu IF, aimed at offering free preparatory courses for students currently in the 9th grade of public elementary schools. This program not only provides supplementary classes but also includes a monthly scholarship of R$ 200 for the selected students, making it accessible for those in the region of Vale do Paraíba and Litoral Norte. There are a total of 200 available spots divided among four key cities: 40 in Caraguatatuba, 40 in Jacareí, 80 in São José dos Campos, and 40 in Bragança Paulista.

Enrollment for the course is open online from February 19 to March 9, with a public lottery scheduled for March 20 to select the final candidates. Classes are set to commence on April 6. Importantly, the program encourages inclusivity and diversity by reserving spots for applicants who self-declare as black, mixed-race, indigenous, or from quilombola communities. This initiative reflects the commitment of IFSP to broaden educational opportunities and support disadvantaged groups within the Brazilian education system.

Overall, this course represents a significant step towards educational equity in Brazil, particularly in regions like the Vale do Paraíba, where access to quality education can be a challenge for many students. The financial incentive through the scholarship further helps alleviate economic barriers, allowing more students to pursue their academic goals and prepare for future educational opportunities.