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Portugal’s Council of Ministers met in Bragança on 29 August and approved the transformation of the Polytechnic Institute of Bragança into the University of Bragança and North Interior.
The decision, announced by Minister of Education, Science and Innovation Fernando Alexandre, will initiate the process to convert the existing institution into a university. Alexandre said the move follows a technical analysis and is intended to enhance the region’s capacity for transformation and development.
Prime Minister Luís Montenegro had previously announced the creation of the university on 30 August during the 22nd edition of the PSD Summer University in Castelo de Vide. He described the decision as the result of a “very considered deliberation” and a “high level of reflection” aligned with the government’s education strategy.
Montenegro highlighted that the university’s establishment is based on objective and technical reasons, including scientific capacity, the formation of a qualified faculty, internationalisation efforts and talent attraction, which he said help retain people in the territory.
He added that higher‑education institutions are a “major economic engine” for regions, especially those with low population density, contributing to job creation and solid salary foundations.
Rector Orlando Rodrigues of the Polytechnic Institute called the government’s decision an act of courage, noting that the institution’s persistence in becoming a university has now received a concrete response. Rodrigues said the new university will transform a low‑density area into one of high scientific intensity.
The Polytechnic Institute, which will become the University of Bragança and North Interior, currently comprises six schools located in Bragança, Mirandela and Chaves. It serves approximately 10,000 students, 30% of whom are international.
For more information, visit the official government website or the university’s communications office.
Article and image source: diariodetrasosmontes.com
