The initiative, launched by a 1989 graduating class committee, aims to give back support received and strengthen the new generation of engineers. The celebration took place on September 27th at the Civil Engineering Museum, on the Técnico's Alameda campus.
Miguel Correia, a Técnico professor, highlighted the importance of giving back to the academic community and praised the collaboration of Miguel Lopes in making the scholarship a reality. Addressing the scholarship recipients, Madalena Yang and Joana Cardoso, he emphasized the spirit of continuity.
Madalena Yang, who is starting her master's degree with a focus on Software Engineering and Data Science, believes the scholarship will have a "major impact" on her academic life, viewing it as a "chain" of support across generations.
Joana Cardoso, in turn, intends to dedicate the scholarship's financial support to deepening her knowledge in cybersecurity, including certifications and courses valued in the job market.
The mentorship component is a distinguishing feature of the scholarship. Miguel Correia explained that the goal is to provide scholarship recipients with an experienced engineer as a professional role model, reinforcing the availability of alumni for consultation.
Francisco Melo, Técnico's Vice-President for Academic Affairs, expressed satisfaction with the institution's impact on alumni, reflected in this generous gesture.
Pedro Monteiro, coordinator of the master's program in Computer Engineering and Computers, congratulated the students and conveyed the Department's interest in encouraging the initiative's continuation, given its strong ties with companies in the Lisbon area.
The FINEST scholarship now joins over 20 other patron-supported scholarships assisting Técnico students in bachelor's and master's programs.
