Agenda

The Alentejo Science and Technology Park (PACT) was the epicenter of strategic and collaborative discussions during a series of high-level meetings, held on March 18, 19 and 20, 2024. Leaders, experts and representatives of various entities met to explore new opportunities and strategies in the context of regional development and international cooperation.

The week began with the kick-off meeting of the project “Support for the Development and Implementation of Training, Attraction and Retention of Talent Strategies” in Alentejo, an initiative promoted by the Alentejo Regional Coordination and Development Commission (CCDRA. I.P), in collaboration with the European Commission. The main focus of the meeting was to attract talent in the region, with interventions by leaders such as António Ceia da Silva, President of CCDRA.I.P. and the Alentejo 2030 Steering Committee.

“The Alentejo has abundant natural resources, a rich cultural heritage and a desirable lifestyle,” said Ceia da Silva. “To ensure a bright future, we must recognize the needs and create attractive conditions for talents, whether local or from outside the region, to be motivated to contribute to the economic, social and cultural growth of the region.”

Tiago Pereira, Executive Member of Alentejo 2030, added that “the Alentejo has a double challenge with demographic decline, facing redoubled difficulties in retaining and attracting talent.”

PACT, represented by Executive President Soumodip Sarkar, highlighted its commitment to promoting innovation and technology transfer in the region. “The Alentejo is known for its cultural, historical, gastronomic and natural richness,” said Sarkar. “PACT is committed to making this recognition also extend to the technological and innovation area, attracting and retaining new talent in the region.”

On the following days, 19 and 20 March, PACT hosted meetings organised by the Agency for Development and Cohesion, IP. As part of the Portugal 2030 Functional Articulation Networks, these meetings were crucial for the monitoring and technical support of the European Fund programs.

On March 19th, the Monitoring and Evaluation Network (M&E) focused on promoting the development of Portugal 2030 monitoring and evaluation activities. With the aim of exchanging experiences and good practices among the members of the network to strengthen the capacity for monitoring and evaluating public policies in Portugal. On the same day, the Meeting of the Simplification Working Group was also held, which aims to promote the involvement and empowerment of the Funds ecosystem, as well as to increase the application of simplified forms of support.

On March 20th, the Coordination Network Meeting addressed essential issues for the European Funds ecosystem, with emphasis on the discussion of the status of the implementation of Portugal 2030.

These sessions were held in close collaboration with the Managing Authority of the Alentejo 2030 Programme, reaffirming the joint commitment to regional development and the effectiveness in the application of European Funds.

PACT continues to position itself as a hub for innovation and collaboration, driving sustainable growth and international cooperation.