Fifty years ago, the creation of the University of the Azores was a political act of profound significance. It was an affirmation of Autonomy, a response to isolation, and a clear declaration that the Azores would not accept being left on the margins of knowledge, science, and progress. Half a century later, it is still necessary to explain—to mainland Portugal and to Europe—what it truly means to be an Autonomous and Outermost Region.

To be a university spread across nine islands, with a physical presence on three, entails real and permanent insularity costs—costs that the State has a duty to recognize and offset. This is the primary responsibility of the Government of the Republic.

In a complementary and responsible manner, the Regional Government of the Azores has upheld its commitment to the University of the Azores. We have strengthened its tripolar structure, tripled direct funding, provided land and buildings, and created the conditions necessary to reinforce research, science, and advanced training. We did so because we believe the University is a strategic asset for the Region.

Yet the University of the Azores is not defined solely by buildings or infrastructure. It is people who give it meaning. Students, faculty, researchers, and staff who, every day, help train the human resources the Azores need.

The future demands rigor, renewal, and strategic vision. The University of the Azores must continue to be a university rooted in proximity, yet guided by global ambition—aligned with the real needs of the Region and prepared for the next fifty years.

The University of the Azores is the greatest shared project of the Azorean people. It is our collective responsibility to defend it, to value it, and to ensure that it remains a true engine of development, knowledge, and Autonomy.

Artur Lima is Vice President of the Government of the Azores and oversees science and higher education in the Region.