Secretaria Regional do Turismo, Mobilidade e Infraestruturas
Campanha “Na estrada, todos somos vulneráveis” sensibilizou perto de 250 condutores nos Açores
Campanha “Na estrada, todos somos vulneráveis” sensibilizou perto de 250 condutores nos Açores
Secretaria Regional da Agricultura e Alimentação
Governo dos Açores investe um milhão de euros no reforço do abastecimento de água à agricultura em quatro ilhas
Governo dos Açores investe um milhão de euros no reforço do abastecimento de água à agricultura em quatro ilhas
Secretaria Regional do Turismo, Mobilidade e Infraestruturas
Azorean Government and National Government strengthen their strategic partnership to promote regional tourism
Azorean Government and National Government strengthen their strategic partnership to promote regional tourism
Secretaria Regional da Saúde e Segurança Social
Regional Government promotes webinars dedicated to promoting healthy longevity
Regional Government promotes webinars dedicated to promoting healthy longevity
Nota de Imprensa
May 15, 2026 Campanha “Na estrada, todos somos vulneráveis” sensibilizou perto de 250 condutores nos Açores A campanha de sensibilização rodoviária “Na estrada, todos somos vulneráveis”, realizada entre os dias 21 e 27 de abril, abrangeu as ilhas de São Miguel, Santa Maria, Terceira, São Jorge, Pico e Flores, tendo alcançado um total de 246 automobilistas sensibilizados. Nas restantes ilhas, a iniciativa não pôde ser concretizada devido a condições atmosféricas adversas. Promovida há várias décadas pela Polícia de Segurança Pública (PSP), em estreita colaboração com a Subdireção Regional dos Transportes Terrestres, sob tutela da Secretaria Regional do Turismo, Mobilidade e Infraestruturas, esta campanha tem como principal objetivo contribuir para a mudança de comportamentos e para a salvaguarda de vidas humanas, reforçando a mensagem de que a segurança rodoviária é uma responsabilidade partilhada. Durante toda a campanha, a Subdireção Regional dos Transportes Terrestres acompanhou a PSP no terreno, sensibilizando os condutores para a adoção de comportamentos responsáveis, nomeadamente o cumprimento das regras de trânsito, com vista à redução da sinistralidade rodoviária e das suas consequências. A ação destacou ainda os principais fatores de risco associados à condução, como o excesso de velocidade, o consumo de álcool e as distrações ao volante, alertando para os perigos reais que estes comportamentos representam. Paralelamente, foi promovido o respeito mútuo entre todos os utilizadores da via pública e reforçada a ideia de que qualquer cidadão está sujeito às consequências de um acidente rodoviário, evidenciando a vulnerabilidade universal no contexto da circulação rodoviária.
May 15, 2026 Campanha “Na estrada, todos somos vulneráveis” sensibilizou perto de 250 condutores nos Açores A campanha de sensibilização rodoviária “Na estrada, todos somos vulneráveis”, realizada entre os dias 21 e 27 de abril, abrangeu as ilhas de São Miguel, Santa Maria, Terceira, São Jorge, Pico e Flores, tendo alcançado um total de 246 automobilistas sensibilizados. Nas restantes ilhas, a iniciativa não pôde ser concretizada devido a condições atmosféricas adversas. Promovida há várias décadas pela Polícia de Segurança Pública (PSP), em estreita colaboração com a Subdireção Regional dos Transportes Terrestres, sob tutela da Secretaria Regional do Turismo, Mobilidade e Infraestruturas, esta campanha tem como principal objetivo contribuir para a mudança de comportamentos e para a salvaguarda de vidas humanas, reforçando a mensagem de que a segurança rodoviária é uma responsabilidade partilhada. Durante toda a campanha, a Subdireção Regional dos Transportes Terrestres acompanhou a PSP no terreno, sensibilizando os condutores para a adoção de comportamentos responsáveis, nomeadamente o cumprimento das regras de trânsito, com vista à redução da sinistralidade rodoviária e das suas consequências. A ação destacou ainda os principais fatores de risco associados à condução, como o excesso de velocidade, o consumo de álcool e as distrações ao volante, alertando para os perigos reais que estes comportamentos representam. Paralelamente, foi promovido o respeito mútuo entre todos os utilizadores da via pública e reforçada a ideia de que qualquer cidadão está sujeito às consequências de um acidente rodoviário, evidenciando a vulnerabilidade universal no contexto da circulação rodoviária.
Nota de Imprensa
May 15, 2026 Governo dos Açores investe um milhão de euros no reforço do abastecimento de água à agricultura em quatro ilhas O Governo dos Açores, através da Secretaria Regional da Agricultura e Alimentação, encontra-se a executar um pacote global de investimentos na ordem de um milhão de euros destinado à criação e melhoria das infraestruturas de armazenamento e distribuição de água para a agropecuária. Operacionalizadas pela empresa pública IROA, S.A., e financiadas através do Fundo Ambiental, estas empreitadas estão a decorrer em simultâneo nas ilhas Terceira, Faial, Pico e São Miguel, visando reforçar a resiliência hídrica, a competitividade e a sustentabilidade de centenas de explorações. Para o Secretário Regional da Agricultura e Alimentação, António Ventura, estas quatro intervenções demonstram de forma clara o caminho traçado pelo executivo: “Este é um investimento consistente e estruturante na água como fator essencial para o desenvolvimento agrícola”, vinca. O governante sublinha que a tutela está a criar melhores condições no terreno para apoiar milhares de hectares produtivos, garantindo os meios necessários para uma produção eficiente. “Este é um investimento nas pessoas, nas nossas zonas rurais e no futuro da agricultura açoriana”, assinala também. No terreno, este esforço financeiro traduz-se em quatro frentes de obra distintas. Na ilha Terceira, já teve início a empreitada da Rede de Distribuição de Água na Canada dos Tinchais (Bacia Leiteira do Paúl). Com um valor superior a 117 mil euros, a intervenção contempla a instalação de 80 ramais de abastecimento, beneficiando diretamente cerca de 2.800 hectares de Superfície Agrícola Utilizada (SAU). Paralelamente, em São Miguel, encontra-se em curso uma obra de 54 mil euros ao longo da estrada regional da Lagoa do Congro, nas freguesias da Ribeira das Tainhas e Ponta Garça. Através da instalação de novos ramais, o projeto foca-se no aproveitamento de sistemas de distribuição por gravidade, promovendo o aumento da eficiência produtiva e uma redução substancial da pegada de carbono, ao diminuir a necessidade de transporte de água. A construção de nova capacidade de armazenamento é a prioridade para o Faial e para o Pico. No Faial, decorre a bom ritmo a empreitada na zona do Cascalho (Cedros), um investimento de 139 mil euros para erguer um reservatório de 250 metros cúbicos e respetiva rede. Esta obra beneficiará 48 explorações (cerca de 149 hectares) e contará com a colaboração da Câmara Municipal da Horta para a sua futura gestão. Já na ilha do Pico, estão a avançar as obras nas zonas da Piedade/Ribeirinha e Criação Velha, orçadas em quase 90 mil euros. O projeto contempla a requalificação de infraestruturas e a instalação de dois novos reservatórios (com 250 metros cúbicos de capacidade), beneficiando 144 explorações, espalhadas por cerca de 2.800 hectares, numa zona com forte vocação para a bovinicultura de carne.
May 15, 2026 Governo dos Açores investe um milhão de euros no reforço do abastecimento de água à agricultura em quatro ilhas O Governo dos Açores, através da Secretaria Regional da Agricultura e Alimentação, encontra-se a executar um pacote global de investimentos na ordem de um milhão de euros destinado à criação e melhoria das infraestruturas de armazenamento e distribuição de água para a agropecuária. Operacionalizadas pela empresa pública IROA, S.A., e financiadas através do Fundo Ambiental, estas empreitadas estão a decorrer em simultâneo nas ilhas Terceira, Faial, Pico e São Miguel, visando reforçar a resiliência hídrica, a competitividade e a sustentabilidade de centenas de explorações. Para o Secretário Regional da Agricultura e Alimentação, António Ventura, estas quatro intervenções demonstram de forma clara o caminho traçado pelo executivo: “Este é um investimento consistente e estruturante na água como fator essencial para o desenvolvimento agrícola”, vinca. O governante sublinha que a tutela está a criar melhores condições no terreno para apoiar milhares de hectares produtivos, garantindo os meios necessários para uma produção eficiente. “Este é um investimento nas pessoas, nas nossas zonas rurais e no futuro da agricultura açoriana”, assinala também. No terreno, este esforço financeiro traduz-se em quatro frentes de obra distintas. Na ilha Terceira, já teve início a empreitada da Rede de Distribuição de Água na Canada dos Tinchais (Bacia Leiteira do Paúl). Com um valor superior a 117 mil euros, a intervenção contempla a instalação de 80 ramais de abastecimento, beneficiando diretamente cerca de 2.800 hectares de Superfície Agrícola Utilizada (SAU). Paralelamente, em São Miguel, encontra-se em curso uma obra de 54 mil euros ao longo da estrada regional da Lagoa do Congro, nas freguesias da Ribeira das Tainhas e Ponta Garça. Através da instalação de novos ramais, o projeto foca-se no aproveitamento de sistemas de distribuição por gravidade, promovendo o aumento da eficiência produtiva e uma redução substancial da pegada de carbono, ao diminuir a necessidade de transporte de água. A construção de nova capacidade de armazenamento é a prioridade para o Faial e para o Pico. No Faial, decorre a bom ritmo a empreitada na zona do Cascalho (Cedros), um investimento de 139 mil euros para erguer um reservatório de 250 metros cúbicos e respetiva rede. Esta obra beneficiará 48 explorações (cerca de 149 hectares) e contará com a colaboração da Câmara Municipal da Horta para a sua futura gestão. Já na ilha do Pico, estão a avançar as obras nas zonas da Piedade/Ribeirinha e Criação Velha, orçadas em quase 90 mil euros. O projeto contempla a requalificação de infraestruturas e a instalação de dois novos reservatórios (com 250 metros cúbicos de capacidade), beneficiando 144 explorações, espalhadas por cerca de 2.800 hectares, numa zona com forte vocação para a bovinicultura de carne.
Nota de Imprensa
May 13, 2026 Azorean Government and National Government strengthen their strategic partnership to promote regional tourism The Regional Secretary for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures stated on Tuesday at the Conceição Palace in Ponta Delgada that the Azorean Government and the National Government are working together in a coordinated and ongoing manner to strengthen the Region’s air mobility and connectivity, which are essential for the sustainable development of tourism and the Azorean economy. This strategic partnership involves Visit Azores, Turismo de Portugal (national tourism authority), airlines, ANA – Aeroportos de Portugal (national airport authority) and Lajes Civil Airport. It covers key areas such as destination promotion and improved air connectivity, with initiatives planned for the short, medium and long-term. “This project has been underway for some time and will continue, with a view to the sustained and progressive development of the Azores as a destination, while acknowledging that its structural effects take time to take root,” emphasised Berta Cabral during a working meeting dedicated to the tourism sector. The meeting brought together the Secretary of State for Tourism, Trade and Services, Pedro Machado, the President of Turismo de Portugal, Carlos Abade, and the regional main tourism business associations, demonstrating an unprecedented institutional and operational alignment with the sector’s current challenges. It was also confirmed that the Azorean Government and the National Government will continue their efforts to reach out to airlines, with a view to securing more flights, greater connectivity and improved travel conditions to and from the Azores. As part of this cooperation, a specific promotional plan for next winter is already being developed, with strong involvement from Turismo de Portugal, and its implementation will be led by Visit Azores, strengthening the Azores’ presence in the domestic market. The government official acknowledged that regional tourism is going through a particularly challenging period. In this regard, she explained that this is due to a combination of factors, including a downturn in the domestic market and an unfavourable international climate, with global impacts on the tourism sector, influenced by the Middle East conflict, the subsequent instability linked to the fuel crisis, and international geopolitics. In addition to this context, as she pointed out, “the withdrawal of Ryanair and the consequent reduction in the number of seats available for the Region have had an immediate effect on demand.” Despite the current difficulties, Berta Cabral was clear about the Regional Government’s strategic direction: “We cannot, nor should we, alter structural policies in response to temporary difficulties. There is scope for tactical, operational and promotional adjustments, but the course remains the same. We are firmly committed to enhancing the value and diversifying product quality, as well as positioning the Azores as a sustainable destination of excellence.” The Regional Secretary also emphasised that the recent election of Nuno Leandro as President of Visit Azores represents “the visible face of a process to revitalise the association,” marked by a new approach to tourism promotion, as well as by a closer, more collaborative and effective partnership with associations' members and entrepreneurs in the sector. “This closer alignment with the private sector is clearly a strategic move for the future, ensuring greater flexibility, more informed decisions and the implementation of more effective measures that have a real impact across the entire tourism value chain,” she emphasised. In this regard, she called for collective responsibility: “We all must have the same goal, with a constructive spirit and tangible solutions. Promoting the destination must always be a central part of our public strategy. Any message is shared on a global scale and can influence tourists, investors, operators and even the decisions of airlines.” All business associations present at the meeting had the opportunity to present their main concerns, questions and suggestions, thereby contributing not only to an assessment of the current operational situation but, above all, to the development of a vision for the future. At the end of the meeting, it became clear that regional and national policymakers, as well as economic stakeholders, are on the same page and working in a coordinated manner to overcome the current downturn in tourism, a sector that remains one of the main drivers of the Azorean economy. Amidst the launch of a new round of contracts with Turismo de Portugal and increased funding for the external promotion of the Azores, a commitment was also made to attract new events and tour operators. The priority given to the Azores as part of the campaign to boost domestic tourism, scheduled to be launched before the summer, was also confirmed, as was the full alignment of the Secretary of State for Tourism, Trade and Services and Turismo de Portugal with the Region’s needs, through close collaboration across all areas. This collaboration involves the development and structuring of tourism products, ensuring high standards of quality and excellence, as well as raising awareness of financial support schemes and improving information provision and capacity-building within the sector.
May 13, 2026 Azorean Government and National Government strengthen their strategic partnership to promote regional tourism The Regional Secretary for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures stated on Tuesday at the Conceição Palace in Ponta Delgada that the Azorean Government and the National Government are working together in a coordinated and ongoing manner to strengthen the Region’s air mobility and connectivity, which are essential for the sustainable development of tourism and the Azorean economy. This strategic partnership involves Visit Azores, Turismo de Portugal (national tourism authority), airlines, ANA – Aeroportos de Portugal (national airport authority) and Lajes Civil Airport. It covers key areas such as destination promotion and improved air connectivity, with initiatives planned for the short, medium and long-term. “This project has been underway for some time and will continue, with a view to the sustained and progressive development of the Azores as a destination, while acknowledging that its structural effects take time to take root,” emphasised Berta Cabral during a working meeting dedicated to the tourism sector. The meeting brought together the Secretary of State for Tourism, Trade and Services, Pedro Machado, the President of Turismo de Portugal, Carlos Abade, and the regional main tourism business associations, demonstrating an unprecedented institutional and operational alignment with the sector’s current challenges. It was also confirmed that the Azorean Government and the National Government will continue their efforts to reach out to airlines, with a view to securing more flights, greater connectivity and improved travel conditions to and from the Azores. As part of this cooperation, a specific promotional plan for next winter is already being developed, with strong involvement from Turismo de Portugal, and its implementation will be led by Visit Azores, strengthening the Azores’ presence in the domestic market. The government official acknowledged that regional tourism is going through a particularly challenging period. In this regard, she explained that this is due to a combination of factors, including a downturn in the domestic market and an unfavourable international climate, with global impacts on the tourism sector, influenced by the Middle East conflict, the subsequent instability linked to the fuel crisis, and international geopolitics. In addition to this context, as she pointed out, “the withdrawal of Ryanair and the consequent reduction in the number of seats available for the Region have had an immediate effect on demand.” Despite the current difficulties, Berta Cabral was clear about the Regional Government’s strategic direction: “We cannot, nor should we, alter structural policies in response to temporary difficulties. There is scope for tactical, operational and promotional adjustments, but the course remains the same. We are firmly committed to enhancing the value and diversifying product quality, as well as positioning the Azores as a sustainable destination of excellence.” The Regional Secretary also emphasised that the recent election of Nuno Leandro as President of Visit Azores represents “the visible face of a process to revitalise the association,” marked by a new approach to tourism promotion, as well as by a closer, more collaborative and effective partnership with associations' members and entrepreneurs in the sector. “This closer alignment with the private sector is clearly a strategic move for the future, ensuring greater flexibility, more informed decisions and the implementation of more effective measures that have a real impact across the entire tourism value chain,” she emphasised. In this regard, she called for collective responsibility: “We all must have the same goal, with a constructive spirit and tangible solutions. Promoting the destination must always be a central part of our public strategy. Any message is shared on a global scale and can influence tourists, investors, operators and even the decisions of airlines.” All business associations present at the meeting had the opportunity to present their main concerns, questions and suggestions, thereby contributing not only to an assessment of the current operational situation but, above all, to the development of a vision for the future. At the end of the meeting, it became clear that regional and national policymakers, as well as economic stakeholders, are on the same page and working in a coordinated manner to overcome the current downturn in tourism, a sector that remains one of the main drivers of the Azorean economy. Amidst the launch of a new round of contracts with Turismo de Portugal and increased funding for the external promotion of the Azores, a commitment was also made to attract new events and tour operators. The priority given to the Azores as part of the campaign to boost domestic tourism, scheduled to be launched before the summer, was also confirmed, as was the full alignment of the Secretary of State for Tourism, Trade and Services and Turismo de Portugal with the Region’s needs, through close collaboration across all areas. This collaboration involves the development and structuring of tourism products, ensuring high standards of quality and excellence, as well as raising awareness of financial support schemes and improving information provision and capacity-building within the sector.
Nota de Imprensa
May 13, 2026 Regional Government promotes webinars dedicated to promoting healthy longevity As part of the Regional Programme for the Promotion of Active and Healthy Ageing, included in the Regional Health Plan 2030, the first webinar in a series dedicated to promoting healthy longevity will take place on May 21 between 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. It will focus on the theme “Active Longevity: Physical exercise transforms ageing.” This free online initiative, which requires registration, aims to raise awareness of the importance of regular physical activity as a key factor in active and healthy ageing with a better quality of life. Aimed at healthcare professionals, professionals in the social sector and the general public, this first webinar will bring together experts and leading national and regional organisations, providing a space for reflection, knowledge-sharing and practical insights into the role of physical exercise in promoting lifelong health. The programme features presentations by Pedro Morouço, Director of the National Programme for the Promotion of Physical Activity at the Directorate-General for Health, on the role of physical activity in active ageing; Isabel Mendes, from the Regional Directorate for Sport, on physical exercise programmes and island-specific initiatives; André Fernandes, from Portugal Activo – Association of Fitness and Health Clubs, on the promotion of physical activity in a community context; and Luciana Silva, from the Azores Regional Section of the Physiotherapists' Association, who will lead a practical physical exercise session. Lasting approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, the session will include opportunities for sharing, interaction with participants and a practical component, emphasising the importance of active lifestyles as a means of prevention, maintaining independence and promoting well-being throughout the ageing process. This event marks the beginning of a series of webinars on healthy ageing to be held throughout 2026, as part of the Regional Health Plan 2030. They will address various crucial aspects of ageing, including the prevention of dependencies and the impact of loneliness on physical, mental and social health. Participation is free of charge, subject to mandatory registration via the form available at https://forms.office.com/e/auLKtiN4fi. For further information, those who are interested may contact the event organisation via email at [email protected].
May 13, 2026 Regional Government promotes webinars dedicated to promoting healthy longevity As part of the Regional Programme for the Promotion of Active and Healthy Ageing, included in the Regional Health Plan 2030, the first webinar in a series dedicated to promoting healthy longevity will take place on May 21 between 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. It will focus on the theme “Active Longevity: Physical exercise transforms ageing.” This free online initiative, which requires registration, aims to raise awareness of the importance of regular physical activity as a key factor in active and healthy ageing with a better quality of life. Aimed at healthcare professionals, professionals in the social sector and the general public, this first webinar will bring together experts and leading national and regional organisations, providing a space for reflection, knowledge-sharing and practical insights into the role of physical exercise in promoting lifelong health. The programme features presentations by Pedro Morouço, Director of the National Programme for the Promotion of Physical Activity at the Directorate-General for Health, on the role of physical activity in active ageing; Isabel Mendes, from the Regional Directorate for Sport, on physical exercise programmes and island-specific initiatives; André Fernandes, from Portugal Activo – Association of Fitness and Health Clubs, on the promotion of physical activity in a community context; and Luciana Silva, from the Azores Regional Section of the Physiotherapists' Association, who will lead a practical physical exercise session. Lasting approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, the session will include opportunities for sharing, interaction with participants and a practical component, emphasising the importance of active lifestyles as a means of prevention, maintaining independence and promoting well-being throughout the ageing process. This event marks the beginning of a series of webinars on healthy ageing to be held throughout 2026, as part of the Regional Health Plan 2030. They will address various crucial aspects of ageing, including the prevention of dependencies and the impact of loneliness on physical, mental and social health. Participation is free of charge, subject to mandatory registration via the form available at https://forms.office.com/e/auLKtiN4fi. For further information, those who are interested may contact the event organisation via email at [email protected].
Nota de Imprensa
May 13, 2026 Maria João Carreiro highlights increased visibility and credibility of vocational education announcing new courses for 2026/2027 The Regional Secretary for Youth, Housing and Employment, Maria João Carreiro, announced this Tuesday in Ponta Delgada that 58 new Level 4 vocational courses will be available at Azorean vocational schools for the 2026/2027 school year. With these 58 new courses, spanning 21 vocational fields, vocational schools will offer more than 1,000 vacancies for young people who choose to pursue vocational studies with dual certification – academic and professional. Maria João Carreiro spoke at the Azores Industry, Trade and Services Fair – FICSA, where the “Your First Choice – Lab – Discovering careers” sessions are taking place. She was accompanied by the Regional Director for Vocational Training and Employment, Renato Medeiros, the President of the Board of AEPA – Association of Vocational Schools of the Azores, João Moniz, and the Vice-President of ANESPO – National Association of Vocational Schools, Domingos Borges. “More than the number of courses or vacancies, it is important to highlight the diversity of the training provision, which reflects an effort on the part of vocational schools to tailor their courses to the needs of businesses and the interests of young people,” she said. The Regional Secretary emphasised that education in vocational schools is now an option “increasingly valued by young people, families and businesses,” which is why “education in vocational schools now enjoys greater visibility and credibility.” On the occasion, the government official noted that the “Your First Choice” campaign is already underway, featuring street and digital (social media) advertising. The campaign has been run annually by the Government of the Azores since 2023 to raise awareness among young people and families about the opportunities and benefits of vocational education, whereby young people can enter the labour market directly or pursue higher education. This year, the focus of the campaign, which complements the communication efforts of schools and their training programmes, lies in diversifying the range of training areas within Level 4 courses, enhancing the status of occupations, and raising awareness among young people of the importance of skills in becoming good professionals. “A trained electrician will undoubtedly be a more well-rounded electrician with greater scope for development than one without training. The same applies to all occupations. Our companies need more young people with the skills, know-how, confidence and independence that vocational education fosters,” she noted. The “Your First Choice Lab – Discovering careers” sessions are taking place at FICSA, featuring daily, live and interactive demonstrations of careers and professional fields led by vocational training students. The sessions end tomorrow, Thursday, May 14. During these sessions, organised by the Regional Government in close cooperation with vocational schools, young people have the opportunity not only to see first-hand how one works or what is learnt in a particular occupation, identifying areas of interest that they would often not discover through theory alone, but also to ask trainees and instructors questions about the training paths for each vocational course. Maria João Carreiro also congratulated the regional Vocational Schools for their willingness to coordinate the provision of training courses for the 2026/2027 school year. This is a joint, open and ongoing collaboration with the Regional Government that benefits young people, families and the economy, reinforcing the role of vocational education as a path that is increasingly becoming the first choice for even more Azorean young people.
May 13, 2026 Maria João Carreiro highlights increased visibility and credibility of vocational education announcing new courses for 2026/2027 The Regional Secretary for Youth, Housing and Employment, Maria João Carreiro, announced this Tuesday in Ponta Delgada that 58 new Level 4 vocational courses will be available at Azorean vocational schools for the 2026/2027 school year. With these 58 new courses, spanning 21 vocational fields, vocational schools will offer more than 1,000 vacancies for young people who choose to pursue vocational studies with dual certification – academic and professional. Maria João Carreiro spoke at the Azores Industry, Trade and Services Fair – FICSA, where the “Your First Choice – Lab – Discovering careers” sessions are taking place. She was accompanied by the Regional Director for Vocational Training and Employment, Renato Medeiros, the President of the Board of AEPA – Association of Vocational Schools of the Azores, João Moniz, and the Vice-President of ANESPO – National Association of Vocational Schools, Domingos Borges. “More than the number of courses or vacancies, it is important to highlight the diversity of the training provision, which reflects an effort on the part of vocational schools to tailor their courses to the needs of businesses and the interests of young people,” she said. The Regional Secretary emphasised that education in vocational schools is now an option “increasingly valued by young people, families and businesses,” which is why “education in vocational schools now enjoys greater visibility and credibility.” On the occasion, the government official noted that the “Your First Choice” campaign is already underway, featuring street and digital (social media) advertising. The campaign has been run annually by the Government of the Azores since 2023 to raise awareness among young people and families about the opportunities and benefits of vocational education, whereby young people can enter the labour market directly or pursue higher education. This year, the focus of the campaign, which complements the communication efforts of schools and their training programmes, lies in diversifying the range of training areas within Level 4 courses, enhancing the status of occupations, and raising awareness among young people of the importance of skills in becoming good professionals. “A trained electrician will undoubtedly be a more well-rounded electrician with greater scope for development than one without training. The same applies to all occupations. Our companies need more young people with the skills, know-how, confidence and independence that vocational education fosters,” she noted. The “Your First Choice Lab – Discovering careers” sessions are taking place at FICSA, featuring daily, live and interactive demonstrations of careers and professional fields led by vocational training students. The sessions end tomorrow, Thursday, May 14. During these sessions, organised by the Regional Government in close cooperation with vocational schools, young people have the opportunity not only to see first-hand how one works or what is learnt in a particular occupation, identifying areas of interest that they would often not discover through theory alone, but also to ask trainees and instructors questions about the training paths for each vocational course. Maria João Carreiro also congratulated the regional Vocational Schools for their willingness to coordinate the provision of training courses for the 2026/2027 school year. This is a joint, open and ongoing collaboration with the Regional Government that benefits young people, families and the economy, reinforcing the role of vocational education as a path that is increasingly becoming the first choice for even more Azorean young people.
