Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction The revolution of education with artificial intelligence Education in Portugal is undergoing a phase of transformation, where the integration of artificial intelligence emerges as an essential tool to modernise schools and optimise learning. The implementation of AI tutors will allow teaching to be personalised, adjusting to the needs of each student and broadening educational opportunities. This approach promotes a more inclusive education system, which keeps pace with technological advances without replacing the fundamental role of teachers. The use of artificial intelligence in education aims to identify knowledge gaps, reinforce areas of difficulty, and inspire adaptive study methods. Each student will be able to benefit from individualised support, with suggestions and resources that complement traditional teaching. In this way, education becomes more efficient, focused on the real progress of each student and the enhancement of individual potential. Equality of opportunities and digitalisation Education plays a central role in promoting equality, and the adoption of digital technologies helps to reduce disparities among students from different backgrounds. AI in education does not replace the teacher but acts as a reinforcement of pedagogical support, providing additional assistance without compromising human interaction and the socio-emotional development of students. Beyond direct classroom application, the digitalisation and use of artificial intelligence in education also involve investments in infrastructure and teacher training. The modernisation of schools ensures that all students have access to advanced tools, allowing education to meet the demands of the 21st century and prepare learners for future challenges. Strategies to improve learning The focus of education in a digital context includes the creation of programmes that monitor the progress of each student and adapt teaching methods. This model allows continuous analysis of progress, ensuring that any difficulties are quickly identified and addressed. Technology-based education also encourages autonomous learning, motivating students to explore content and develop essential digital skills. Another important aspect of modern education is the promotion of literacy and reading comprehension, crucial factors for success across all subjects. The integration of digital tools enables more precise assessments and more effective strategies to reduce reading deficits. By strengthening comprehension and written expression, education prepares students for a more consistent academic and professional path. The education of the future Education, by incorporating artificial intelligence, redefines the concept of teaching, promoting a balance between technological innovation and the humanisation of learning. The implementation of digital tutors, the improvement of infrastructure, and the continuous training of teachers contribute to a more efficient education system adapted to the needs of the 21st century. With this evolution, education in Portugal positions itself as an example of adaptation and modernisation, ensuring that all students benefit from personalised support and equitable opportunities. The future of education lies in the intelligent integration of technology, supporting academic progress without compromising the irreplaceable role of the teacher.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Adjustment to the deadline and review of available vacancies The extraordinary competition for teachers has been extended until 11:59 p.m. on 21 November, allowing more candidates to apply for the available positions in schools that are finding it harder to recruit teachers. The decision was made by the Ministry of Education, which aims to ensure that all schools begin the second term with their teaching staff complete. The extension of the deadline comes with a small adjustment to the vacancies, keeping the overall total of 1,800 positions. The Government will redistribute the vacancies among the different recruitment groups, strengthening the subjects with the greatest need for teachers and reducing those with lower demand. Reinforcement in subjects with greater teacher shortages The extraordinary competition for teachers aims to address the shortage of teaching staff in various regions of the country, particularly in areas where recruitment has been more difficult. Among the newly introduced changes, the increase in vacancies for the 1st cycle of Basic Education stands out, an area that has seen a lack of candidates in several municipalities. On the other hand, some subjects with an excess of available teachers will see their vacancies reduced to balance distribution and ensure a more efficient allocation of human resources. This measure seeks to prevent unfilled positions in critical areas and ensure stability in the operation of public schools. Objective: ensuring teachers in all schools With the extension of the extraordinary competition for teachers, the Ministry of Education aims to speed up the placement process and reduce the number of classes without an assigned teacher. The redistribution of vacancies, without increasing the total number of positions available, represents a reorganisation effort to meet the most urgent needs of the education system. In addition to the reinforcement in the 1st cycle, there will also be adjustments in subjects such as Physics and Chemistry, which initially had no open positions. The measure reflects a more precise response to the needs of schools and the actual number of teachers available in the recruitment pool. The Government emphasises that the extraordinary competition is intended to be a temporary corrective mechanism, contributing to a more balanced and functional education system, ensuring that all students have access to qualified teachers in every subject.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Municipal councils can now submit applications for support from the European Investment Bank (EIB) to upgrade 237 public schools in urgent need of intervention. The funding, totalling 850 million euros, is intended for the modernisation of lower secondary, upper secondary, and secondary education establishments, covering 118 municipalities and more than 128,000 students. EIB funding for school modernisation EIB support is part of the Schools Programme, approved in December 2023, which plans interventions in 451 establishments through various funding sources, including the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR), the State Budget, and regional funds. This second phase of applications complements the first package of 300 million euros already contracted, allowing municipalities to advance with school rehabilitation and construction projects. Applications must be submitted by 30 June 2026, with one application required per school. Works must begin within 90 days of approval, or the investment will be forfeited. EIB funding can cover up to 70% of project costs, and up to 90% in Lisbon and other specific regions, with eligible expenses fully non-repayable. Eligible projects and application criteria Operations with a minimum total cost of 250,000 euros will be eligible, provided they start after 1 February 2020. Projects completed prior to application are excluded. Each proposal must include a schedule with completion by 31 December 2030, ensuring that works respect maximum construction costs per square metre. Applications must also include investments that contribute to energy and digital transition. Funding covers rehabilitation and expansion works, as well as the acquisition of school furniture, IT, educational, and sports equipment, and digital learning resources. Non-recoverable VAT is also eligible. Regional distribution and project implementation Approval of applications will be communicated by the Regional Coordination and Development Commissions (CCDR) within 40 days, extendable by up to 15 additional days. After approval, schools may receive an advance of 30% of the grant, with subsequent payments processed based on invoices and never less than 10% of the total amount. The Lisbon and Tagus Valley region receives the largest share, 399.5 million euros for 95 eligible schools, representing 47% of the total. The North region follows with 212.5 million for 61 establishments. The remaining funds will be distributed by the CCDRs according to the number of eligible schools and classes in each territory. EIB support boosts school modernisation Through this programme, support from the European Investment Bank reinforces the commitment to modernising the Portuguese school network, promoting safer, more efficient, and technologically equipped learning environments. For municipalities, it is an opportunity to enhance educational infrastructure and improve the school environment, aligning with sustainability and energy transition goals set for the next decade.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Google invests in the future of AI in Portugal Google has announced a programme to train 7,000 Portuguese university students in AI skills, reinforcing the company’s commitment to digital transformation. The investment, amounting to approximately €862,000, will be channelled through INCO and Chance, two organisations collaborating with national universities to provide advanced artificial intelligence training. Among the institutions involved are the Polytechnic Institute of Santarém and the Polytechnic Institute of Tomar, which will host AI-focused programmes. The aim is to prepare students to thrive in an increasingly tech-driven job market, where AI expertise offers a clear competitive advantage. Training will cover areas such as machine learning, automation, data analysis and practical applications of AI across different economic sectors. AI as a driver of digital transformation Artificial intelligence is becoming a cornerstone of the global economy and Portugal aims to position itself as ready for this revolution. Google believes AI can boost economic growth, increase productivity and foster new business models. The programme seeks to develop national talent and create a more robust tech ecosystem where innovation and digital ethics go hand in hand. Google’s AI investment goes beyond education. The company has strengthened Portugal’s technological infrastructure with strategic projects. In 2022, it launched the Equiano submarine cable, improving connectivity between Portugal and Africa. It later announced the Nuvem cable, which will connect Portugal to the United States by 2026, including an extension to the Azores. In 2024, the Sol transatlantic cable was unveiled, passing through Spain, Bermuda, and again the Azores. These initiatives reinforce the technological foundation required for large-scale AI development. Empowering people and institutions for the AI era Google’s training is more than a simple curriculum update. It is a key step in preparing new generations for AI’s impact across all sectors. By linking higher education with the private sector, the programme creates a bridge between theory and practice, encouraging the real-world application of technological knowledge. AI is already transforming how people work, learn, and live. Universities play a central role in this process, ensuring future professionals master the tools needed to innovate and create AI-driven solutions. With this investment, Portugal positions itself among European countries with the greatest growth potential in this field. AI as a factor for competitiveness and innovation AI mastery is now an indicator of digital maturity and competitiveness. Companies integrating artificial intelligence into their processes become more efficient, sustainable and ready to meet market demands. Google emphasises that this technology represents an opportunity for economic development and the enhancement of national talent. In sectors such as real estate, AI is increasingly decisive. Tools based on intelligent algorithms allow trend prediction, personalised experiences, and task automation. This innovation provides strategic advantages and raises service quality standards. WebAI: the future of smart real estate In real estate, AI is highlighted through solutions like WebAI , the latest product from eGO CRM Real Estate . This technology equips real estate web pages to communicate directly with AI agents, ensuring each site is optimised for the new intelligent search paradigm. WebAI includes an automated interaction system that improves lead generation, responds to users in real time and ensures properties gain higher visibility with digital assistants. Portuguese real estate companies can leverage AI to boost efficiency, attract clients, and stand out in a highly competitive market. A digital future built with AI With this investment, Google strengthens its commitment to Portugal and contributes to building a solid and inclusive digital economy. Training 7,000 university students in AI marks the start of a new phase of growth, innovation, and sustainable development. AI is no longer just an emerging technology; it has become an essential skill for the country’s future. Initiatives like this, along with innovative solutions such as WebAI , position Portugal at the forefront of the global digital revolution.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Digital Training Voucher extended until June 2026 Applications for the Digital Training Voucher have once again been extended, allowing workers to apply for support until June 2026. This decision follows a new extension of the deadline, which was initially set to end in September 2024 and had already been postponed to the end of 2025. The extension was confirmed by the Institute for Employment and Vocational Training (IEFP), reinforcing its commitment to promoting digital skills among Portuguese professionals. Created in 2023, the Digital Training Voucher aims to support the development of technological qualifications by granting up to 750 euros per worker for courses in areas such as cybersecurity, programming, digital marketing or data analysis. The incentive seeks to accelerate the digital transition of the national economy and improve the competitiveness of the labour market. All workers may apply, regardless of their employment status, from employees to self-employed workers, sole traders and single-member company partners. Eligible training may be carried out in person, remotely or in hybrid mode, as long as it is completed by 30 June 2026. More than 14,000 applications and 4 million euros paid Since the launch of the programme in September 2023, the IEFP has received more than 14,000 applications for the Digital Training Voucher, around six thousand of which have already been approved and paid. In total, the amount granted exceeds four million euros, representing a significant investment in the digital qualification of workers. Overall, the programme has already committed more than seven million euros, reflecting the strong interest of Portuguese workers in strengthening their digital skills. Payments are made after the completion of the training and closure of the application on the IEFP portal, with a maximum reimbursement period of 30 days. Despite the success of the initiative, some trainees have pointed out challenges related to the need to pay for the courses upfront. Nevertheless, the IEFP argues that this model ensures the participants’ effective commitment and prevents applications without the intention of completing the training. Focus on improving Portuguese workers’ digital skills The extension of applications for the Digital Training Voucher reflects the ongoing investment in technological empowerment and business modernisation. The growing demand for digital courses shows that workers recognise the importance of investing in new skills, which are essential in an increasingly competitive and automated market. With this incentive, the Government aims to speed up the process of professional requalification and reduce the digital literacy gap that still affects part of the active population. Training in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, programming and digital marketing is seen as a key step in preparing workers for future challenges. By extending the deadline until 2026, the IEFP ensures more time for thousands of Portuguese people to benefit from the Digital Training Voucher, strengthening digital transformation and innovation in the national labour market.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction Investing in Education and Student Talent Education in Portugal continues to evolve with initiatives that promote meritocracy and facilitate access to higher education. The Lisbon School of Economics and Management (ISEG) once again stood out by awarding merit scholarships to 89 students with the highest grades, covering the full tuition of the first year. Now in its third edition, this programme represents a saving of approximately 63,000 euros for families and reinforces the institution’s commitment to high-quality education and equal opportunities. The purpose of these merit scholarships extends beyond financial relief. The incentive aims to attract academically outstanding students, motivating them to choose ISEG as their first option for higher education. By supporting emerging talent, the institution contributes to training future economists and managers of excellence, strengthening the landscape of education in Portugal. The initiative is supported by career partners, including renowned companies such as Deloitte, EY, KPMG, PwC, Jerónimo Martins, and BNP Paribas. These partners enhance the positive impact of the programme, demonstrating that investing in quality higher education is a strategic priority that benefits not only students but also the wider market and society. Merit Scholarships: Economic and Academic Impact ISEG’s merit scholarship programme highlights how education can be both inclusive and merit-based. By eliminating first-year tuition, students can focus entirely on their academic development without the financial pressures many families face. This ensures that access to higher education is determined by effort and talent rather than solely by family economic conditions. Beyond the direct financial benefit, the scholarships foster a culture of academic excellence, encouraging students to maintain high performance. The programme has a significant impact on education, contributing to the development of highly qualified professionals prepared to meet the challenges of the labour market and the global economy. With 20% of first-year students benefiting from this initiative, ISEG demonstrates that higher education can be both competitive and inclusive. Balancing meritocracy with financial support is key to ensuring the sustainability of an educational system that values excellence while promoting equitable opportunities for all. Investing in education also stimulates innovation and social progress. Students with access to high-quality programmes develop advanced skills, become agents of change, and contribute to the economic and social growth of the country. Initiatives like ISEG’s merit scholarships highlight the importance of educational policies that foster talent, equity, and a sustainable future. The Future of Higher Education in Portugal Commitment to merit-based programmes shows that higher education can be accessible and high-quality simultaneously. Incentives like these scholarships attract talent, reduce inequalities, and prepare professionals capable of leading strategic sectors of the national economy. ISEG continues to lead by example, showing that promoting academic excellence and democratizing access to education are crucial for the country’s development. The accumulated experience with this programme demonstrates that initiatives focused on academic merit and financial support have lasting effects, benefiting both students and society as a whole. Strengthening education through merit programmes is an investment in the future, ensuring that student talent, dedication, and capability are recognised and rewarded, and that Portugal continues to train professionals of excellence ready to face the challenges of a constantly evolving world.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction The INOV Contacto, promoted by the Portuguese Agency for Investment and Foreign Trade (AICEP), has opened applications for its 28th edition. There are 100 paid international internship positions available, with applications accepted until 31 October at 17:00. The initiative remains one of the main national programmes supporting the internationalisation of young Portuguese talent. Created in 1997, INOV Contacto aims to prepare qualified young people to face global challenges and integrate into innovation networks in multicultural environments. Over nearly three decades, it has provided professional experiences in approximately 90 countries and collaborated with more than 1,400 hosting entities, strengthening Portugal’s image worldwide. Updates and conditions for the 28th edition of INOV Contacto This edition introduces several improvements to enhance the participants’ experience. Key changes include an increase in the monthly grant to €1,442.10, the extension of the maximum internship duration to 12 months, and a candidate age limit of 29 years. Additionally, a one-week rest period has been introduced to promote a healthy balance between personal and professional life. INOV Contacto also focuses on greater support and well-being for interns, with attention to mental health and the quality of the international experience. The online application platform has been redesigned to simplify the process and make selection more accessible and transparent. Hosting entities have been chosen based on stricter criteria, considering past editions and the positive impact on participants’ careers. INOV Contacto reinforces investment in young Portuguese talent The AICEP president, Madalena Oliveira e Silva, has highlighted the programme’s strategic role, stating that INOV Contacto represents a direct investment in Portugal’s most valuable resource: young talent. The programme remains an essential tool to strengthen the competitiveness of Portuguese companies and promote innovation and internationalisation as drivers of economic growth. With this new edition, INOV Contacto reaffirms itself as a key instrument for the professional and personal development of participants. Selected young people will have the opportunity to work in world-class companies, acquire skills in challenging environments, and represent Portugal in high-impact international projects. Applications open until 31 October Applications for INOV Contacto are open until 31 October, and interested candidates can submit their applications through the official AICEP portal. This is a unique opportunity for those seeking a paid international professional experience, combining training, networking, and personal growth. At a time when the global economy increasingly demands intercultural skills, INOV Contacto continues to be a successful example of cooperation between the public and private sectors, helping to prepare a new generation of Portuguese professionals with global vision and an innovative mindset.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction 36 million euros in unpaid university fees University fees are once again at the centre of academic debate in Portugal. Over the past three academic years, students at public higher education institutions have accumulated 36.1 million euros in debt to the country’s main universities and polytechnics. The figure, revealed by 14 public institutions, highlights a growing financial strain among Portuguese students and their families. ISCTE tops the list with 15.8 million euros owed, followed by the University of Minho with 7.1 million and the University of Porto with 4.6 million. Among the polytechnics, Setúbal and Leiria each report more than one million euros in outstanding tuition fees. These amounts refer to overdue university fees from the last three academic years. Causes and consequences of student debt Institutions cite several reasons for the increase in unpaid fees: delays in social support grants, families’ economic hardship, and school dropout rates. Many students attempt to negotiate payment plans, but when no agreement is reached, universities turn to the Tax Authority to enforce collection, as with other state debts. Since 2015, this mechanism has allowed institutions to recover more than 16 million euros in unpaid fees. Although tuition debt represents only a small share of university budgets, the issue has resurfaced due to the 2026 State Budget proposal, which foresees raising the maximum annual fee from 697 to 710 euros. The proposed increase has been met with backlash from students, who argue it is unfair given current financial pressures. Protests and debate over the future of higher education Student associations argue that the biggest financial burden comes from student housing, whose costs have soared in recent years, particularly in Lisbon, Porto and Coimbra. The Ministry of Science, Technology and Higher Education maintains that tuition fees remain a crucial source of funding for institutions and that social support measures have been strengthened. Nonetheless, the government acknowledges the need to review the higher education funding model in the medium term. Meanwhile, tensions continue to rise. On 28 October, during the final day of budget debate, thousands of students are expected to gather outside Parliament to protest the increase in university fees and demand greater public support. The issue is set to define the start of the new academic year and once again place the financing of higher education under scrutiny.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction The Todos Contam Competition in schools returns in 2026 for its 14th edition, distinguishing the best financial education projects developed in Portuguese schools. The initiative aims to promote financial literacy among children and young people, encouraging them to acquire essential skills to manage resources, save, and make informed decisions throughout their lives. What is the Todos Contam Competition in schools The Todos Contam Competition in schools is an initiative of the National Council of Financial Supervisors — which includes Banco de Portugal, the Portuguese Securities Market Commission and the Insurance and Pension Funds Supervisory Authority — in partnership with the Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation. Since its creation, the competition has had a significant impact by raising awareness among thousands of students about the importance of financial literacy and the responsible management of money. The 2025/2026 edition will continue this work through the implementation of innovative projects that involve the school community, teachers, headteachers, and parents. Prizes awarded in the competition The Todos Contam Competition in schools highlights two main prize categories: School Prizes These distinguish the best projects at different levels of education: pre-school, 1st, 2nd and 3rd cycles of basic education, and secondary education. Teacher Prize Dedicated to teachers who stood out in previous years for their implementation of financial literacy projects. A continuity prize may also be awarded, designed to recognise multi-year projects that have participated in at least three consecutive editions. Each prize has a value of €1,000, in books and school materials, and is awarded in two phases: half after the announcement of the winners and half at the end of the 2025/2026 school year, upon proof of project implementation. Who can apply In the “School Prizes” category, applications may be submitted by school clusters, non-clustered schools, private and cooperative schools, vocational schools, and non-profit private institutions offering basic or secondary education. For the “Teacher Prize”, teachers with proven experience in implementing financial education initiatives may apply. How to participate Applications for the Todos Contam Competition in schools must be submitted between 6 January and 6 February 2026, via an online form. In the case of the “School Prizes”, applications are submitted by headteachers of schools or clusters and must include a detailed description of the financial literacy project developed. In the “Teacher Prize” category, applications are submitted by the teacher themselves, highlighting initiatives carried out in previous years. The competition rules are available on the official Todos Contam platform, where it is possible to consult the form fields and attach evidence of activities. Application requirements Applications to the Todos Contam Competition in schools must be aligned with the Essential Learning outcomes of the Citizenship and Development subject, with special emphasis on the areas of Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurship, as well as the Financial Education Framework developed by the National Plan for Financial Training. The projects presented must: Promote savings habits and responsible financial behaviour. Encourage the correct use of digital financial services. Stimulate financial resilience in the daily lives of families. Integrate sustainability goals into financial choices. Use teaching resources available on the Todos Contam portal, such as financial education booklets and lesson plans. Applications that do not comply with the guiding principles of the competition may be excluded, particularly in cases involving the direct participation of financial institutions without the expected sectoral framework. Evaluation Applications to the Todos Contam Competition in schools are assessed by a jury composed of representatives of the Ministry of Education and specialists in pedagogy and financial literacy. Criteria considered include innovation, pedagogical relevance, impact on students, and alignment with essential learning outcomes. The Todos Contam Competition in schools continues to establish itself as a national reference in the promotion of financial literacy. By rewarding projects developed at different levels of education and committed teachers, the initiative contributes to forming citizens better prepared to manage resources responsibly. This 14th edition maintains the aim of reinforcing the role of the school as a space for citizenship and empowerment for the economic challenges of the future.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction University residences are undergoing unprecedented expansion in Portugal. According to the Government, by 2026, 90 new units are expected to be completed across the country, resulting in an increase of around 11,000 beds compared to the 2020/2021 period. The aim is to address the longstanding shortage of student accommodation, which has long been an obstacle for those wishing to pursue higher education, particularly outside their areas of residence. Investment for 2026 The National Plan for Student Accommodation (PNAES) drives this transformation. Currently, the rate of construction completion is at 25%, but the pace is expected to accelerate in the next academic year with the opening of new units. In September alone, 16 new openings are expected, while 49 buildings are undergoing renovation. In total, 139 interventions in student residences are underway across different parts of the country. This growth in the university residence network is not limited to quantity. The focus is particularly on the quality of the infrastructure, with modern, more sustainable buildings adapted to current student needs, including study areas, communal spaces, and solutions that promote integration and academic well-being. Renovation and modernisation A large portion of the investment is directed at renovating older university residences, many of which were built decades ago and no longer met current comfort and energy efficiency standards. The work includes upgrading rooms, kitchens, common areas, and accessibility improvements, ensuring the spaces meet the needs of a diverse student community. This renovation also has a positive impact on the cities hosting higher education institutions, contributing to urban revitalisation and greater integration of students into local life. The importance of residences in higher education University residences play a fundamental role in democratizing higher education. For many students, especially those from peripheral areas or lower-income families, access to affordable accommodation is crucial for continuing their studies. Large-scale construction and renovation ensure that students can find fairer cost options in a housing market marked by high prices, particularly in major urban centres such as Lisbon, Porto, and Coimbra. Additionally, living in these spaces fosters a community and support environment that proves essential to students’ academic journeys. Limits to construction and future prospects Despite significant ongoing investment, the Government recognises that construction capacity has limits. The construction sector is under high pressure, and further accelerating work could inflate market costs. The strategy, therefore, is to complete PNAES-funded projects and already prepare expansion plans for the post-2026 period, ensuring the growth of the university residence network continues sustainably. Higher education institutions are called upon to play an active role in shaping the future by presenting projects beyond PRR resources that could benefit from national or European investment in later phases. Transformation in the interior and medium-sized cities A key aspect of the current student accommodation policy is its territorial reach. New university residences are being built not only in major urban centres but also in medium-sized interior cities. This aims not only to support student settlement in these regions but also to combat depopulation and boost local economies. The arrival of new students, supported by modern residences, positively impacts commerce, restaurants, and services, reinforcing the importance of higher education as a driver of regional vitality. The future of university residences in Portugal promises historic growth, with an additional 11,000 beds and 90 new units operational by 2026. This expansion represents more than an immediate response to student accommodation shortages: it is an investment in equitable access to higher education, modernising the educational network, and enhancing regional development. By combining the renovation of older buildings with the construction of new units, and balancing investment between urban and interior regions, Portugal ensures that students will have better conditions to study, live, and contribute to the country’s social and economic transformation.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction The new student residence in Portalegre marks an important milestone in improving accommodation conditions for higher education in the country’s interior. Located in Bairro da Abrunheira, opposite the Fair and Exhibition Park, this facility of the Polytechnic Institute of Portalegre responds directly to the growing demand for student housing and the need to provide modern and affordable conditions for young people choosing the region for their studies. Capacity and Modern Facilities The student residence in Portalegre can host 203 residents across eight housing blocks comprising 44 apartments. Each unit is designed to provide comfort and functionality, including fully equipped rooms, dining areas, kitchens or kitchenettes, laundry facilities, and study rooms. These spaces allow students to balance academic life with daily routines practically, in an environment suited to university rhythms. In addition to private areas, the residence includes communal spaces that encourage social interaction and shared experiences. A gym, multipurpose room, coworking areas, and additional study spaces will ensure conditions for social integration while promoting residents’ physical and mental well-being. These areas are nearing completion and will enhance the residence’s community dimension. Contribution to Academic Life By establishing this new student residence in Portalegre, the Polytechnic demonstrates its commitment to significantly improving the academic experience for those who choose to study in the city. Providing modern, accessible accommodation close to teaching areas reduces logistical difficulties and facilitates the integration of young people from different regions of the country and even abroad. Investing in student residences is also an investment in equal opportunities, enabling students to focus on their studies without excessive concerns over the private housing market, which is often expensive and limited. Urban and Community Impact The establishment of the new student residence in Portalegre also has a positive impact on the city itself, particularly through the rehabilitation of Bairro da Abrunheira, a previously degraded area revitalised by this project. Urban renewal brings benefits to the entire community, promoting not only student housing but also local commercial, social, and cultural dynamism. The arrival of over two hundred students in this area helps revitalise the local economy, supporting services, restaurants, and shops. Thus, the residence functions not only as student accommodation but also as a driver of development for the city of Portalegre. National Support and European Funding The construction of this student residence in Portalegre is part of the National Plan for Higher Education Accommodation (PNAES), an initiative designed to address the shortage of university beds. Funding is provided by the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR), a European instrument created to revitalise the economy and strengthen territorial cohesion following the pandemic crisis. This financial support enabled not only the construction of the new facility but also ensured that the project met high standards of quality, sustainability, and energy efficiency. By investing in modern, energy-efficient infrastructure, the Government reinforces its commitment to improving students’ living conditions in inland regions. More Opportunities for the Interior Locating a student residence in Portalegre strengthens the city’s appeal as an academic destination. At a time when combating rural depopulation is a priority, initiatives like this have even greater strategic value. By providing dignified accommodation, the Polytechnic and the Government create incentives for more students to choose inland regions as an alternative to large urban centres. Beyond the social dimension, there is also an economic contribution, retaining young, active-age residents who consume, participate, and energise local life. This reinforcement also facilitates connections between academia and regional businesses, enhancing internships, research projects, and future employment opportunities. The inauguration of the new student residence in Portalegre represents more than just an increase in higher education beds. It is an investment in the future of the territory, in the quality of academic experience, and in the urban and economic revitalisation of a region that relies on knowledge as a development driver. With the capacity to accommodate 203 young people in modern and dignified conditions, the Polytechnic Institute of Portalegre ensures that studying in inland Portugal becomes more accessible, fair, and attractive. This is a decisive step in consolidating the city’s position as an academic hub and in structurally reinforcing the national policy for student accommodation.
Source: Adobe Stock Author: Redaction A start marked by the shortage of teachers The beginning of the new school year in Portugal is once again marked by a recurring problem: the shortage of teachers. Thousands of pupils have returned to school, but in several classes lessons are affected by the absence of teachers, particularly in the Lisbon and Tagus Valley, Setúbal and Algarve regions. This is a phenomenon that has dragged on for years and requires not only urgent but also structural solutions, so that the quality of education is not compromised. The shortage of teachers particularly affects areas such as Languages, Mathematics and ICT, where it is more difficult to attract candidates. In Sintra, for example, there are school clusters that have still not been able to fill timetables, despite the efforts of some teachers who have postponed retirement to ensure that pupils are not left without lessons. This situation is not new but tends to worsen with the growing number of retirements expected in the coming years. Mitigation measures and government support To mitigate the problem, the government has implemented support measures for teacher mobility. Teachers placed in schools more than 300 kilometres from their home, in disadvantaged areas, will receive a subsidy of 500 euros for 11 months. This incentive aims to attract professionals to regions where the shortage is more severe and where the lack of teachers is felt most acutely. Even so, many schools are still waiting for replacements and extraordinary recruitment procedures to meet urgent needs. The issue of the shortage of teachers is described by the Ministry of Education itself as structural. The country faces a dual challenge: the annual departure of thousands of teachers into retirement and the difficulty of attracting new professionals into the career. Despite a 20% increase in demand for Education courses, the result of negotiations with universities and polytechnics, the truth is that the number of recent graduates is still not enough to offset the pace of retirements. Direct impact on schools and pupils Another relevant point is that the shortage of teachers does not necessarily mean the absence of lessons. In many schools, management has resorted to teachers in mobility or temporary contracts, although the pedagogical quality is not always assured. However, the impact on pupils’ daily lives is undeniable: classes starting the year without teachers in core subjects, unstable timetables and delays in completing the curriculum. Alongside the shortage of teachers, this school year brings other changes, such as the ban on mobile phone use in the early years, changes to the Citizenship subject and increased support for school transport. Some schools, such as in Sintra, have already held meetings with parents to discuss these changes and have even acquired educational games to replace mobile phones during breaks. However, these measures end up being overshadowed by the urgency of solving the central problem: ensuring that each class has a teacher at the front of the classroom. Long-term solutions to overcome the shortage of teachers Unions warn that the shortage of teachers can only be solved in a lasting way if there is effective recognition of the teaching profession. This includes more attractive salaries, more balanced working hours, better travel conditions and contractual stability. The impact of the shortage of teachers goes far beyond statistics and administrative measures. Every lesson hour lost is a learning opportunity that pupils cannot easily recover. For the future of the Portuguese education system, it will be essential not only to speed up recruitment and replacements but also to make the teaching profession more appealing and sustainable. Otherwise, this will remain a problem that continues to mark the start of each school year, with direct consequences for the education of future generations.
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