On March 29th, the Institute of Technology and Research (ITP) welcomed students from the Prof. João Costa Center of Excellence through the "High School Scientific Initiation Program." The program aims to encourage students to develop an interest in science and technology, enrich their knowledge, and choose technological fields for their future careers.
Dr. Álvaro Silva Lima, coordinator of the Food Research Laboratory (LPA) at ITP, emphasized the importance of such programs in fostering research and innovation. "These programs are crucial for students' education and for the development of science and technology in the country," he stated.
João Pedro, a student from the Prof. João Costa Center of Excellence, highlighted the significance of these initiatives in broadening students' perspectives and motivating them to pursue scientific and technological careers. "Through these experiences provided by these programs, we can expand our minds and be encouraged to follow this path," he said.
Maria Correia, also a student from the Prof. João Costa Center of Excellence, mentioned that these programs can help discover new interests and talents. "Sometimes, we can discover new preferences we didn't have before. I had already decided more or less what I liked, so for me, it's already something great. However, someone who never had an interest can discover that they really enjoy it and even find a talent they didn't know they had," she explained.
Suelaine dos Santos, the Chemistry teacher at the Prof. João Costa Center of Excellence, emphasized that scientific initiation in basic education enhances students' knowledge and makes learning even more significant. "Often, our first contact with scientific initiation occurs only in higher education. However, starting this contact in basic education further enriches students' knowledge and makes learning even more meaningful," she affirmed.
Paulo do Eirado, the director-president of ITP, highlighted the importance of hosting high school students to introduce them to the solutions offered by the institute. "We have a range of fascinating solutions related to professional development, opportunities for higher education, post-graduation, research, and much more, all within their reach so that they can explore their own vocations and talents that may emerge from this visit," he explained.
