News

News

Leading Companies Partner with NOVA FCT to Train the Engineers of the Future

08-04-2025

Photo: João Lima/NOVA FCT

On April 8, a debate was held on the skills sought in recent graduates in the field of Communications and Information Engineering and the importance of collaboration between industry and academia. The event marked the official launch of the new Bachelor's Degree in Communications and Information Engineering (LECI), which will begin in the 2025/2026 academic year.

Offered by the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (DEEC) at NOVA FCT, this new degree is supported by a strategic partnership with leading market players including AXIANS, CISCO, GMV, MEO, NOKIA, NOS, and VODAFONE. These companies will fully fund student tuition fees and actively contribute to their academic journey. The agreement will cover the first three editions of the program.

The degree features an innovative curriculum designed to meet the current needs of the technology sector, covering areas such as telecommunications engineering (cloud computing, cybersecurity), network operations, and the development of technological solutions. Through this model, NOVA FCT aims to attract top students based on academic merit.

In addition to funding, partner companies will contribute real-world case studies to the curriculum and aim to identify and recruit talent after graduation, with a view to supporting students in pursuing advanced studies at the Master's level. To support this, open sessions will be held every semester, where companies will present their most innovative projects, promoting interest and networking between students and potential employers.

"This new degree represents a unique approach to engineering education, combining academic excellence with the real needs of the industry. With the support of our corporate partners, we can offer students outstanding opportunities, preparing them for future challenges with a strong focus on innovation and employability," says Rodolfo Oliveira, coordinator of the new program.

This model strengthens the link between academia and the business sector, promoting the training of highly qualified professionals ready to enter the job market. The initiative also aims to create more opportunities for students to build successful careers in Portugal while contributing to the growth of companies and the national economy.

In addition to the seven founding partners, more technology companies are expected to join the initiative by September 2025, when classes are scheduled to begin, ensuring coverage for all enrolled students.

Photo gallery available here. (Credits: João Lima / NOVA FCT)

In the media:Empresas pagam propinas de alunos de nova licenciatura da Nova FCT, ECO