The Faculty of Biotechnology (ESB) of the Universidade Católica Portuguesa concluded its 40th anniversary celebrations with a solemn ceremony honoring 40 individuals and institutions who, over the decades, have shaped its path of scientific excellence, education, and service to the community.
The ceremony took place on July 11, at the Porto campus of the Universidade Católica Portuguesa. It brought together members of the academic community, institutional representatives, past and present collaborators, partners, students, and alumni in a symbolic moment of recognition of the past and a projection into the future.
Opening the session, Isabel Braga da Cruz, Pro-Rector of the Universidade Católica Portuguesa for the Porto Regional Center, highlighted the importance of the ESB as a pillar of innovation and social impact: “The Faculty of Biotechnology is a national and international benchmark in the production of knowledge and its application in the service of society. This 40-year journey is a testament to its capacity for innovation, resilience, and commitment to the University’s mission.”
This was followed by a speech from Paula Castro, Director of the Faculty of Biotechnology, who recalled key moments in the Faculty’s history and emphasized the role of all those who contributed to its growth: “I believe that celebrating the past is an act of awareness. It’s about knowing where we came from. It’s about understanding who helped us get to where we are. And it is also, humbly, acknowledging that we did not get here alone. We’ve lived through different, remarkable experiences—often ahead of their time—true bookmarks of history that conspired to lead us to what we are today. As José Saramago said, ‘Nothing lasts forever, but there are moments that seem to remain suspended, hovering over the inexorable flow of time.”
The central moment of the ceremony was dedicated to recognizing 40 individuals and institutions that have left an indelible mark on the history of the Faculty of Biotechnology, from education and research to outreach and collaboration with the business sector.
One of the guest speakers was Jorge Portugal, Director-General of COTEC Portugal, who shared insights on the role of science and innovation in building a more sustainable and collaborative future, highlighting the role of the Faculty of Biotechnology as a training institution and strategic partner within the agri-food and biotechnology ecosystem.
Ondina Afonso, President of the Continente Producers’ Club (SONAE), reflected on her personal journey: “I had the privilege of learning from brilliant minds. They brought cutting-edge knowledge, an international perspective shared by professors from the USA, England, and the Netherlands.”
The session was closed by Isabel Capeloa Gil, President of the Universidade Católica Portuguesa, who reflected on the Faculty’s legacy and the challenges facing higher education institutions in the coming years: “The Faculty of Biotechnology has consistently stood out for its excellence—not only in research and education but also in its ability to respond to major global challenges. This is a moment of celebration, but also one of commitment to a future where science will continue to serve human dignity and the common good.”
The event concluded with a celebratory toast ("Porto de Honra"), offering a moment of fellowship and sharing between generations connected to the Faculty, enthusiastically closing a particularly symbolic academic year for the Faculty of Biotechnology.
