Oeiras Pole Communication, Events and Partnerships Office (NCEP)

From May 21 to 25, Instituto Superior Técnico – Oeiras Campus was one of the main venues of the Oeiras Valley Science Festival, the largest science and innovation event in the municipality of Oeiras. The festival brought together students, researchers, teachers, and the general public through a wide range of scientific and educational activities.

Over the course of five days, the campus hosted an extensive program of events, including interactive experiments, laboratory visits, a mobile planetarium, school presentations, workshops, and Técnico – Oeiras Campus Open Day, all aimed at bringing science closer to the community.

One of the most engaging moments was the 2nd Meeting of Oeiras Science Clubs, held on May 21 and 22, which brought together nine Ciência Viva Clubs from local schools. These clubs filled the main atrium of Técnico with project exhibitions, scientific experiments, and 10-minute pitch presentations.

At the opening ceremony, several speakers emphasized the importance of the initiative. Pedro Patacho, Councillor of the Oeiras Municipality, stated: “We are a special community, and I like to think that this movement is unstoppable. Truly magnificent things can only be achieved if we do them together.”

Joana Mendonça, Vice-President for the Management of Técnico – Oeiras Campus, highlighted the essential role of teachers and encouraged young students to keep asking questions and exploring science: “It is to the sound of your questions that we hope you will continue your journey.”

During the meeting, students and teachers showcased the work developed throughout the academic year, demonstrating creativity and scientific rigor. The event concluded with the roundtable discussion “Bridges to the Future: Collaboration in Science and Education,” which reinforced the value of cooperation between schools, local government, research centers, and higher education institutions.

On May 22 the program also featured the workshop “The Adventures of a Little Drop of Water,” led by Professor Adelino Galvão. In this fun and educational activity, around six primary school classes enthusiastically revisited the water cycle and explored the physical and chemical properties of Portugal’s natural waters.

Visitors had the opportunity to explore the world of research through guided visits to several scientific units, including the Stem Cell Bioengineering Lab, with demonstrations on cell culture, biomaterials, 3D bioprinting and genetic editing. The Institute for Systems and Robotics also offered demonstrations in space, aerial, and marine robotics. A highlight was the visit to the NanosatLab, Técnico’s small satellite development lab, where ISTSat-1, Portugal’s first university satellite, was designed.

During the Open Day, the campus welcomed students from various schools, families, and science enthusiasts. Participants had the chance to meet researchers and university students, take part in scientific demonstrations, learn about innovative projects and explore the lab facilities. The initiative intended to bring science closer to society, present the institution’s educational and research offerings, and inspire future generations of scientists and engineers.

The Oeiras Valley Science Festival concluded on May 25, celebrating science as a driver of development and fostering dialogue between schools, universities, research centers and society.