ISMT and CASPAE strengthen strategic partnership for the 2026-2027 period

2026-02-20

The Miguel Torga Higher Institute and CASPAE signed a collaboration protocol today, outlining six strategic axes for social and academic intervention.

The Miguel Torga Higher Institute (ISMT) and CASPAE formally renewed their strategic partnership today, 20 February, for the 2026-2027 period. This collaboration, which spans 25 years, aims to deepen the link between formal and non-formal education, promoting the integration of students into real-world social and community intervention contexts within the Coimbra region.

The proposal for this biennium is structured around six fundamental axes, notably the Social Intervention Projects (NEST). Regarding Child Protection, ISMT will provide scientific support and supervision for an emergency service aimed at children and young people at risk identified in police contexts. Additionally, the NEST – Mental Health project will focus on therapeutic intervention and parental training for children with incarcerated parents, integrating the Institute's academic expertise into this social response.

The protocol also includes the creation of an Integrated Training Centre, the development of the "Mesa Comum" social incubator, and the "Alavanca Social" volunteering programme, which will allow for the awarding of academic credits (ECTS) to participating students. Through this cooperation, ISMT consolidates its role as a benchmark in social innovation, strengthening the connection between scientific research, teaching practice, and the needs of the surrounding community.