The Azores Science Centres, developed the Regional Government of the Azores, through the Regional Secretariat for Science, Technology and Infrastructures, promote the dissemination of scientific culture and regional biodiversity, increasingly attracting local, national and even foreign visitors. 

The scientific community has shown increasing interest in research and scientific dissemination projects as well as the local community that has visited the various Science Centres, such as Expolab in Lagoa.

This information was confirmed by the Regional Secretary for Science, Technology and Infrastructures during a visit to the exhibition “Anfíbios: uma pata na água e outra na terra” (Amphibians: between water and land) which is open to the public at Expolab until October 31.

“The dissemination of scientific culture, promoted by the Science Centres has increasingly attracted more visitors, not only school-aged children, but also adults. Science Centres represent a tourist hub that should be developed as they promote our biodiversity,” stressed José Contente at the end of the visit.

The University of the Azores itself maintains a very close connection with the Science Centres and in the case of Expolab as it has been a partner in several projects of public interest. In addition, “the ERASMUS students participate in science activities and visit what is being done here, which enhances the promotion of science through various channels.”

Expolab is one of the six centres that make up the Science Centres Network, playing an educational role in the science education for children of various age groups and it has also become a tourist attraction for the scientific community.

José Contente also mentioned the importance of the legislation recently approved by the Regional Government regulating the collection of samples of the genetic and natural heritage of the Azores, which is now available to the local, national and foreign scientific community; however, it also ensures that the Region should benefit from the scientific exploration of natural resources.”

All of this building, which brings together scientific and technological activities, has a guiding principle, said the Regional Secretary. According to José Contente, the Regional Government’s strategy aims to boost scientific culture among the Azorean population, bring knowledge to companies and promote an effective and sustainable use of genetic and natural resources.