Reaching the end of secondary school is like being at a crossroads: several paths lie ahead, with doubts about which one to choose and many unanswered questions. University, polytechnic, vocational course, studying in Portugal or even abroad – and then, what opportunities exist in the job market? This series of talks has been designed for you, who are planning your next step. You will hear real stories, discover different paths, and learn how your choices today can open doors to the future. More than just talking about courses, we'll talk about opportunities, skills, and challenges – so you can decide with confidence and build your own path. The event will be organised by UFP and GEFIL (Galician Group for Studies on Training and Labour Integration).
It will be a hybrid event, so those registered for the seminar who cannot attend in person will be able to access it via the following link: https://meet.google.com/upv-sxyk-jyz.
PROGRAM
09:15 – Opening Session | Welcome
Filipe Macedo – GEFIL/UFP
Filinto Lima – ANDAEP
Rector of the Fernando Pessoa University, Prof. Dr. Eugénio Campos Ferreira
10:00 – 11:00 | The Managers' Perspective
José Afonso Carraca, Administrator of ITAU – Institute of Technical Human Nutrition, S.A.
Rogério Macedo Lourenço, Administrator of LOUROFOOD – World of Cheese
11:00 AM – 11:30 AM | Coffee Break
11:30 AM – Panel 1 | Choices at the end of secondary school: deciding the future
Intervention: Filinto Lima and Paula Magalhães
Objective: To support students in understanding the factors that should be considered when deciding on their academic path.
Topics to cover:
Self-awareness: identifying interests, aptitudes, and motivations
Difference between “dream course” and “employable course"
Vocational guidance tools (tests, fairs, contact with professionals)
The role of family, teachers and psychologists in decision-making
12:30 PM – Panel 2 | Paths after secondary school: higher education and other alternatives
Intervention: Rui Leandro Maia and Paulo Rurato
Objective: To raise awareness of the variety of options available after Year 12.
Topics to cover:
University Education and Polytechnic Education: differences and complementarities
Higher Professional Technician Courses (CTeSP) and vocational training
Continuing education and alternative paths (gap year, volunteering, technical courses)
National and international academic mobility
Bags and incentives
13:30 – Lunch / Break
15:00 – Panel 3 | Preparing for the transition: academic life, well-being and professional future
Intervention: Luís Borges Gouveia and Levi Leonido
Objective:
Support young people in preparing practically and emotionally for university life.
Topics to cover:
Expectations and realities of academic life
Stress management, mental health, and work-life balance
Support networks and resources available at universities
Non-linear career paths (change of direction, career change)
Entry into the national and international job market
16:30 – Panel 4 | Higher education and employability: the present and the future
Intervention: Filipe Macedo and Feliz Ribeiro Gouveia
Objective: To link courses with professional outcomes and labour market trends.
Topics to cover:
Areas with higher employability in Portugal
Emerging professions (artificial intelligence, digital and ecological transition, health, creative economy)
Transferable skills valued in any career
The link between higher education and the job market (internships, career programmes, alumni)
Simulated projects and projects developed in partnership with companies
18:00 – Closing Session
Summary of the key points discussed
President of the Fernando Pessoa Education and Culture Foundation, Prof. Dr. Salvato Trigo
Registration
Submit your application here