The student-athletes of NOVA University Lisbon filled the auditorium of the Rectory, on the Campolide campus, this Monday, 21st, to receive their diplomas and Sports Merit Scholarships, in a ceremony that aims to recognise and promote university sports practice in parallel with academic results
“You are the hosts of the party”, began the Rector of NOVA, João Sàágua, and continued: “It is with honour and satisfaction that we meet with you today to celebrate your achievements. In total, there are 45 gold medals, 22 silver, 37 bronze, in addition to the two in the World University Canoe Championship, and Patrícia Sampaio’s bronze in judo at the Olympic Games. I also think it is important to note that 60 per cent of these scholarships are awarded to women”.
But not only that. The rector of NOVA also emphasised how sport promotes physical and mental health, developing skills for the rest of life: teamwork, leadership, overcoming obstacles and even knowing how to lose with humility. “Because of the example you set for the academic community, showing that it is possible to balance commitments, you are a model to follow,” he said before signing off. “As NOVA ambassadors, your success is an inspiration.”
Raquel Lourenço, a doctoral student who stood on the podium several times in athletics competitions during the last academic year, thanked him on behalf of the students and said: “Today is the day to celebrate what everyone has achieved. We are good, we want to be better, and we can be better.
The Secretary of State for Youth and Sport, Pedro Dias, was also present at the ceremony, which ended with the awarding of diplomas to each athlete and the corresponding scholarships awarded by the Social Welfare Services of NOVA (SASNOVA).
