On Friday, the Regional Secretary for Science, Technology and Infrastructures announce the creation a scheme of Scholarships for Initiating Scientific Investigation (BIIC), meant to stimulate the commitment of professors and researchers undertaking scientific investigation in the Azores.

Speaking at the colloquium “No Caminho das Didácticas: Saberes, Experiências e Inovação”, organised by the University of the Azores, José Contente said that an application for such scholarships had been given to researchers and scientists. He added that they must submit their applications until the end of March.

Professor, students and researchers of the University of Azores (UAç) “should be aware that the Regional Government has specific programmes for supporting research and that it considers the formation of knowledge a spring that will propel the development of the Region as well as contributing to the solution of problems faced by Azorean society.”

José Contente said that the Azores needs scientific solutions in various domains so as to reach a superior developmental plateau. He added that the Regional Government considers the University of the Azores “a privileged and primary source of knowledge.”

The Secretary said that the funds allocated to science, technology and innovation in the Investment Plan of the Region for the current year increased by 16%. José Contente said that this increase demonstrates the commitment of the Regional Government in these domains.

In addition to the funds that have been allotted to the Integrated Plan for Science, Technology and Innovation (PICTI), José Contente underlined the importance of the Governmental policy of integrating the Azores into the European Research Area.

José Contente, one of the former Directors of the Centre, said that “you can count with the support of those that consider the knowledge society a pillar, perhaps the most important pillar, for the development of a healthy society in this modern world.”