The Faculty of Biotechnology of Universidade Católica Portuguesa (ESB-UCP), in Oporto, hosted the final on-site stage of the SHIFT – Strategic Synergies in Agro-Food: A Holistic Journey through Innovation, Sustainability, and Entrepreneurship programme from 13 to 17 July, marking the successful conclusion of its second edition.
The initiative brought together 25 students from different nationalities, accompanied by coordinators and academic staff from the partner institutions.
This in-person week represented the culmination of a learning journey that had begun with online sessions, during which students, working in international and multidisciplinary teams, developed ideas and concepts for innovative food products designed to address current challenges and emerging trends in the agri-food sector.
Throughout the week at ESB, the teams continued developing the work started remotely, transforming their initial concepts into more concrete product proposals.
The programme combined learning activities, collaborative work, and product development, encouraging participants to apply their knowledge in practice while benefiting from the exchange of diverse academic, cultural, and scientific perspectives.
In addition to the activities held at ESB, the programme also included study visits, providing participants with first-hand insight into Portuguese companies and the agri-food sector. These visits complemented the academic programme by offering a practical perspective on innovation, sustainability, and the challenges currently faced by the industry.
International cooperation
The presence in Porto of students, lecturers, and coordinators from the partner institutions also provided an excellent opportunity to strengthen international cooperation, promote intercultural exchange, and establish new collaborative networks among participants from different countries.
The programme concluded with presentations of the projects developed by each team, showcasing the results of the work carried out throughout the SHIFT programme. Students presented their innovative concepts, demonstrating creativity, teamwork, and a multidisciplinary approach to addressing the proposed challenges.
The overall outcome of this second edition of SHIFT was highly positive, highlighted by the strong engagement of both students and academic staff, the quality of the projects presented, and the collaborative spirit established among the participating institutions.
More than an academic programme, SHIFT provided an international learning experience centred on innovation, collaboration, and knowledge sharing. It also reinforced the Faculty of Biotechnology of the Universidade Católica Portuguesa's commitment to promoting European cooperation and preparing a new generation of professionals equipped to contribute to more innovative and sustainable food systems.
