UMinho Pro-Rector, Vice-President of the new National Council for Pedagogical Innovation in Higher Education

Manuel João Costa, Pro-Rector of Student Affairs and Pedagogical Innovation at the University of Minho and member of the Arqus Executive Council, has been appointed vice-president of the new National Council for Pedagogical Innovation in Higher Education (CNIPES), representing the EPIC – Excellence in Pedagogical Innovation and Co-creation (EPIC_EN) consortium. Manuel João Costa took office on 14 February, along with the other members of CNIPES, at a ceremony held at the Thalia Theater in Lisbon.

The CNIPES is an independent and collegial body that has consultative functions and administrative autonomy, working alongside the government member responsible for higher education. This council consists of 25 national and international experts with relevant experience in higher education and has the mission to promote innovation and pedagogical training, considering them essential pillars for improving the quality of education and promoting the success and well-being of academic communities in Portugal.

Manuel João Costa sees the National Council for Pedagogical Innovation in Higher Education (CNIPES) as a driver of institutional transformation, capable of strengthening the system’s articulation and driving changes that promote greater academic success and well-being in higher education communities. He believes CNIPES has the potential to foster an inclusive, innovative, and cooperative culture that maximizes the development and success of all students.

The CNIPES will play a strategic role in the national higher education landscape, bringing together the seven Inter-institutional Centers for Pedagogical Innovation, such as EPIC, which encompass over 90% of the country’s higher education institutions. As a reference forum, it will enhance the consolidation and sharing of pedagogical knowledge, promoting the appreciation of educational activities in parity with research. The idea of establishing a Council for the promotion of pedagogical innovation was proposed in 2023 by then Secretary of State Pedro Teixeira in collaboration with the Director of DGES Joaquim Mourato, and was realized by the Minister of Education, Science, and Innovation, Fernando Alexandre. The CNIPES will be presided over by Patrícia Rosado Pinto.

The Arqus Alliance congratulates Manuel João Costa, Pro-Rector at UMinho and member of the Arqus Executive Council, on his election as vice-president of CNIPES and wishes him the best in coordinating pedagogical innovation practices in higher education in Portugal.