The event, organized by UPCoimbra's Applied Research Institute (i2A) in collaboration with the Municipality of Cantanhede, took place in the Cloisters of the Municipal Chamber. It created a meeting space for researchers, students, families, and citizens, allowing them to learn about and experience the University's work in an accessible and participatory way. The initiative was part of the European Researchers' Night and the "Science Week" of the European alliance UNIgreen.
Throughout the afternoon and evening, various experimental activities, demonstrations, games, and exhibitions covered areas such as health, environment, food, technology, sustainability, materials science, sports, and communication. Highlights included experiments on water purification, the presence of medicines in water, the invisible world of cells, food production, nanotechnology, and science in motion with the IPC Science Van.
The program also included lectures and workshops on applying science to solve community problems, ionizing radiation in medicine, disinformation, physical activity, and information analysis. UPCoimbra's Rector, Cândida Malça, emphasized the importance of science being close to people, stating that "science should not remain confined within universities." She also advocated for an active role for the public in engaging with science, reinforcing the University's mission to serve society.
The president of the Municipal Chamber of Cantanhede, Helena Teodósio, highlighted the action's reach, emphasizing the importance of bringing UPCoimbra's research into the public sphere and closer to the territories. She also noted how this openness strengthens people's connection to this universe and broadens young people's horizons regarding career options available through the institution's courses.
The initiative opened the doors of UPCoimbra's research to diverse audiences in an informal setting, fostering curiosity and dialogue. The event concluded with a cultural performance by Tu Na D’ESTES – Tuna da Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde da UPCoimbra, celebrating science, knowledge, and the academy's connection to society.
