05-02-2026
In the photo, from left to right: Inês Rocha de Gouveia, José Júlio Alferes, José Manuel de Andrade. Photo by João Lima/NOVA FCT
NOVA School of Science and Technology launches its new Multipurpose Space, a project developed in partnership with Fundação Santander and Corticeira Amorim. The initiative aims to meet the academic, social, and cultural needs of the campus community, reinforcing the School's commitment to the continuous modernization of its infrastructure.
Designed as a versatile area, the new facility was conceived to adapt to the various dynamics of academic life, hosting moments of study, social interaction, meals, events, and cultural activities. The space also includes a dedicated area for staff members — smaller in size but offering the same comfort and functionality.
At the inauguration ceremony, NOVA FCT Dean, José Júlio Alferes, emphasized the importance of creating environments that foster well-being and academic life: “It is essential to offer our students spaces that go beyond study — places where they can interact, share ideas, have meals, and participate in events. This reality is only possible thanks to strong partnerships, such as those we maintain with Fundação Santander and Amorim.”
He also framed the project within a broader strategy for campus enhancement, encouraging the School's partners to continue contributing to the creation and renovation of infrastructures that improve study and working conditions.
Representing Corticeira Amorim, José Manuel de Andrade highlighted the long-standing partnership with NOVA FCT and expressed pride in seeing cork valued in an academic setting: “It is very rewarding for us to witness the multiple applications of such a noble and historic material as cork. Beyond enriching the building, it fosters a symbolic connection between students and this emblematic Portuguese product — who may one day become its leading ambassadors in Portugal and abroad.”
Maria Francisca Matias from Fundação Santander, reinforced the institution’s commitment to investing in education, entrepreneurship, and innovation, stressing that projects like this have a tangible impact on academic life and are a source of great pride for the foundation.
Henrique Calado, President of the Students’ Association, praised the strong engagement of the student community, particularly at a time when several buildings are under renovation. He described the new space as a valuable meeting point for students.
From the School's leadership, Eurico Cabrita, Vice-Dean for Innovation and Research, framed the inauguration as part of a broader vision of supporting students’ academic, scientific, and professional paths. He highlighted the importance of combining modern infrastructure with strategic initiatives such as the Mentoring Program, the Career Discovery Month — whose second edition takes place in March — and the upcoming NOVA TechSphere, dedicated to entrepreneurship, innovation, and technology transfer.
In the same spirit, Teresa Santos Silva, Deputy Director for Pedagogical Innovation, underscored the role of people and relationships in the success of initiatives like this one:
“This is a special moment. We have brought together department heads, faculty members, students, partners, and institutional representatives — the right teams to advance the NOVA FCT Mentoring Program. We should not underestimate the impact each of us can have on the academic and professional journey of our students, whether through in-person contact, online support, or through the engagement of institutions that believe in and support these dynamics.”
The inauguration concluded with a musical performance by the Faculty’s male student choir, anTUNiA, marking the closing of the ceremony.
Photo gallery here. (João Lima/NOVA FCT)
