On April 10, Técnico celebrated the signing of four new contracts for the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (DEEC), with Zita Marinho, João Fernandes, Pedro Costa, and José Teixeira de Sousa. The event took place at the Técnico Innovation Center (TIC) and was attended by Nuno Horta, Head of DEEC, Rogério Colaço, President of Técnico, Pedro Brogueira, President of the Scientific Council, Luís Oliveira e Silva, President of the School Council, Miguel Cacho Teixeira, President of the Pedagogical Council, and Luís Lemos Alves, Coordinator for Faculty and Research Development.

Rogério Colaço emphasized the importance of renewing the faculty, noting that “we are an exceptionally privileged generation, well equipped to navigate the fourth technological revolution.” Considering the global sociopolitical context, he also highlighted the social responsibility of all and stressed the importance of preserving Técnico’s “DNA,” which has “always stood for free, critical, and objective thinking.”

Pedro Brogueira described the ceremony as a moment of celebration, highlighting the talent of students and the importance of inspiring them to go further. He also mentioned that new programs allow for a reduction in teaching load to strengthen research. He encouraged new faculty members to actively engage with the community and urged those advancing in their careers to embrace new challenges, emphasizing the importance of continuing to dream.

Luís Oliveira e Silva, President of the School Council, described the ceremony as a new beginning and an opportunity to reflect on the role of faculty, noting that they embody the institution’s values. He concluded by wishing everyone a fresh start marked by ambition, a sense of mission, and enthusiasm.

Luís Lemos Alves stated that the signing of these contracts represents progress in academic careers and highlighted opportunities such as the Shaping the Future program, encouraging faculty members to apply.

Finally, Miguel Cacho Teixeira called for a shift in pedagogical approaches, stressing the connection between teaching and research, and reaffirmed the institution’s confidence in its new faculty members and their ideas.

Article and photos: Técnico