Research, innovation, and academic excellence were the focus of Rector Fernando Ramos’s address at the formal ceremony marking the 40th anniversary of Universidade Portucalense. Arguing that the institution “is on the right track,” the Rector outlined the strategic priorities for the coming decade, focusing on strengthening research, doctoral training, and pedagogical innovation.
Among the key announcements was the launch of two new doctoral programmes in the coming academic year — Translational Psychology and Resilient Architecture and Habitat — both of which have been accredited by A3ES for six years. Fernando Ramos also revealed that the University is taking steps to launch a third doctoral programme in Tourism Destination Management, thereby strengthening its range of advanced study programmes and doubling the number of doctoral programmes offered by the institution.
The Rector attributed this development to a consistent commitment to scientific research and innovation, highlighting the strengthening of advanced training capacity and the consolidation of an academic ecosystem increasingly geared towards the production of knowledge. He also referred to the results of the A3ES institutional evaluation, which enable the University to benefit from the simplified accreditation scheme for study programmes, the growth of the Portucalense Business School, the expansion of the range of micro-credentials on offer, and investment in pedagogical innovation – reflected, amongst other initiatives, in the launch of a new audiovisual studio to support teaching.
In his speech, Fernando Ramos argued that higher education should be defined by the production and dissemination of knowledge, and not merely by the awarding of degrees. He also highlighted the need to revise the Legal Framework for Higher Education Institutions, the legislation governing degrees and diplomas, and the legal framework for distance learning, which he deemed inadequate to the sector’s current needs.
The Rector also recalled the University’s journey over the last four decades, celebrating all those who contributed to its success, and offering special recognition to the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Armando Jorge de Carvalho, for his role in restoring and consolidating the prestige of Universidade Portucalense.
