FEP kicked off the academic year with an innovative and diverse welcome programme for its new bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral students.

Among this year’s novelties were the Speed Talks with FEP Services and the Escape Room, activities that marked a dynamic week of integration. The welcome, however, isn’t over yet. The eagerly awaited Sharpen UP event, rescheduled for 25 September at 6pm, promises to be one of the highlights of the celebrations. Organised with the support of the Students’ Association (AEFEP), it will be a time of celebration and conviviality, with lots of music, entertainment, food and drinks, providing an excellent opportunity to strengthen ties between students in a relaxed atmosphere.

According to the FEP’s Dean, Óscar Afonso, this is a unique moment for the School. ‘The start of a new academic year is always a special moment, marked by renewal, new opportunities, inspiring challenges and, above all, the continuous personal and professional growth of each one of us. This year, we want to reinforce our commitment to the values of diversity and inclusion, which will be the guiding pillars of our activities and initiatives,’ he emphasises.

The welcome programme also included the FEP Welcome Fest, a lively and interactive afternoon that brought together students, companies and academic organisations. The event took place in a relaxed atmosphere.

Another highlight of the programme was the Alumni Talk with Pedro Pinto, a FEP Management graduate and founder of the ‘Falar Com Impacto’ project. Pedro shared his passion for communication and explained how this skill can transform lives and careers. The session was also attended by the Director of Bachelor in Business Administration, Carlos Alves, Rui Henrique Alves, Member of the Scientific Committee of the Economics Degree, and the President of AEFEP, Bernardo Sousa Rodrigues.

The integration of the international mobility students on 12 September was also marked by a warm welcome session, led by Professor Ana Paula Ribeiro, the FEP’s Erasmus Coordinator, who facilitated their adaptation to the academic and cultural life of the faculty.

The new master’s and doctoral students, both national and international, were also greeted by their respective programme directors, who welcomed them and presented the main guidelines for their academic career. In the case of international degree students, there were also specific presentation sessions led by Professor Ana Paula Africano, a member of the Executive Board with responsibility for internationalisation, among other members of the team.

FEP’s welcome reinforced the spirit of community and integration, emphasising the values of diversity and inclusion.

‘At FEP, we believe that diversity – be it of cultures, experiences or perspectives – is a fundamental element in achieving academic excellence and promoting a fairer and more equitable society. Our goal is to ensure an environment where everyone feels welcomed and valued, regardless of their background or personal characteristics. Through mutual respect and collaboration, we are certain that we will make this year a milestone of innovation and enriching learning for our entire community,’ concludes the School’s Dean, Óscar Afonso.