Students criticize creation of University of Bragança

The National Federation of Polytechnic Higher Education Student Associations (FNAEESP) has criticized the decision to create the University of Bragança and the North Interior, claiming the process lacked consultation with the higher education sector.

The federation stated that no opinions have been received from key bodies, such as the Coordinating Council of Higher Education or the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities, regarding this transformation. They described the lack of prior information or consultation as a “grave omission” that harms the principle of institutional participation.

This follows recent changes where the Polytechnic Institute of Bragança (IPB) was renamed the Polytechnic University of Bragança (UPB) on July 31. Prime Minister Luís Montenegro subsequently announced the creation of the new University of Bragança and the North Interior. FNAEESP expressed concern that the rapid pace of these changes indicates a lack of long-term strategy and creates uncertainty for students and families in the region.