“Técnico ends up being a second home – and this space will be too”, said Francisco Gouveia, a Técnico student, during the inauguration of the new Software Engineering Lab on 7 October 2025 at Técnico – Alameda campus. The event was attended by students, professors and business representatives, and marked the opening of a space designed for collaboration, study and experimentation.
The Software Engineering Lab is designed to support various forms of study and work, offering areas for both individual focus and collaboration, addressing the increasing demand for flexibility and shared experiences in academic life.
Located in the Computer Science Building and sponsored by Axians, a member of the Técnico Partner Network, this new study room reflects a shared commitment to bridging the gap between academia and the business sector. “This format embodies the essence of engineering: cooperative, practical, and constantly evolving”, said Carmo Palma, Managing Director of Axians Portugal. She also noted that the company currently employs 83 Técnico alumni.
Pedro Amaral, the Vice-president of Técnico for Corporate Interface, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, emphasised Axians’ role as “another milestone in the significant transformation occurring at Técnico”. He highlighted the history of collaboration with the company, which “has fostered talent, excellence, and education” and pointed out that the drive and ambition of students are “one of Técnico’s greatest assets”.
The importance of networking was also highlighted by Pedro Afonso, CEO of VINCI Energies Portugal and Técnico alumnus. “This room is an example of applied innovation and how collective learning spaces can contribute to students’ educational path”, he said, adding that these initiatives “reinforce the symbiosis between business and academia”.
Ana Teresa Freitas, a professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at Técnico, noted that the new space represents “a long and multifaceted relationship” between Técnico and the business sector. Francisco Gouveia, a student of Computer Science and Engineering, described what the space means for those who experience the academic environment every day: “When we enter Técnico, we realise that being a student goes beyond just attending classes. It involves collaboration, discussing ideas, and developing projects. A space like this enables those moments to come to life”.
The student emphasised that the laboratory serves as “a meeting point, where projects are initiated, dreams are affirmed, and new challenges arise among colleagues”. He believes that the Software Engineering Lab “reminds us that studying is not a solitary act”, but rather a shared journey, where “true potential is achieved together”.
The new Software Engineering Lab is part of the range of spaces at Técnico designed to foster teamwork and facilitate connections with the business world, reinforcing Axians’ commitment to “bringing students, professors, and partners together in a common space for learning and collaboration”.
