The Federal University of Rio Grande (FURG) and the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest and most traditional higher education institutions in Portugal, have renewed the academic, scientific, technological, and cultural cooperation agreement between the two institutions. The agreement was digitally signed by FURG's rector, Suzane da Rocha Vieira Gonçalves, and by the University of Coimbra's Vice-Rector for External Relations and Alumni, João Nuno Calvão da Silva.
The partnership strengthens the ties between Brazil and Portugal and expands the opportunities for academic and scientific exchange between the two universities, covering all fields of knowledge in which the parties share mutual interest.
Objectives and scope
The agreement aims to develop cooperation at the undergraduate and graduate levels, integrating activities and research programs of common interest. Planned actions include:
- exchange of undergraduate and graduate students, professors, researchers, and administrative staff, through specific agreements;
- collaboration between faculty and researchers on teaching, research, outreach, and technological innovation projects;
- joint promotion of and participation in scientific, technological, and cultural events, such as seminars, lectures, and symposiums;
- development of double-degree programs;
- supervision and co-supervision of master's and doctoral theses, as well as participation in examination committees;
- exchange of bibliographic material;
- joint development of research projects, including efforts to secure international funding;
- offering of courses and continuing education programs, in person or online;
- sharing of laboratory resources and research infrastructure, whenever of mutual interest.
Duration and terms
The agreement does not entail any financial commitment between the institutions — any projects involving financial resources will be governed by specific supplementary agreements. Intellectual property arising from joint activities will be addressed on a case-by-case basis, in line with the policies of both institutions, and the parties commit to complying with the personal data protection laws applicable in each country — Brazil's LGPD and the European Union's GDPR.
The agreement is valid for five years from the date of the last signature and may be renewed through written communication between the parties, with at least 60 days' notice.
About the University of Coimbra
Founded in 1290, the University of Coimbra is one of the oldest continuously operating universities in Europe and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The renewed agreement with FURG expands the Brazilian university's international cooperation network, adding to the partnerships it already maintains with institutions in various countries.