The event brought together students, alumni, academic staff, researchers, members of the Faculty's leadership team, former and current heads of department, and partner organisations. It provided an opportunity for different generations connected to the programme, established in 1983, to return to the Faculty, reconnect with colleagues and share memories of their academic journey.

In the opening session, Ana Cristina Casimiro, Head of the Department of Mathematics, highlighted the programme's importance in the history of the institution. Ana Casimiro described its creation as "a fundamental milestone for our community" and reflected on more than four decades marked by the education of thousands of students, as well as periods of challenge, growth and development.

She also emphasised the Department's scientific achievements, particularly through NOVA Math, NOVA FCT's research centre of excellence in mathematics. Nevertheless, she stressed that people remain at the heart of the Department. Describing them as "the true driving force behind its success", she added that "investing in Mathematics is investing in knowledge and in the future".

NOVA FCT Dean José Júlio Alferes described the programme's 43-year history as a source of pride for the Faculty, noting that the institution "has reached maturity and is celebrating what it does well".

The Dean also highlighted the central role played by the Department of Mathematics within NOVA FCT, both through the size of its academic staff and its contribution to teaching across multiple areas of the Faculty. The ongoing refurbishment of Building VII, he said, reflects the Department's ability to adapt and evolve, while providing improved conditions for work, teaching and learning.

The gathering brought together different generations linked to the Mathematics Degree Programme, from current students to former graduates, some of whom work in teaching and research, and ended with a dinner and social event in an informal atmosphere that reinforced the sense of community across generations of the programme.

All photos here

Credits: João Lima-NOVA FCT