Service-learning for social inclusion

The University of Coimbra, founded in 1290 and located in the historic city of Coimbra, is one of Europe’s oldest universities and a UNESCO cultural landmark. With about 25,580 students, including roughly 4,351 international students, the university blends centuries of academic tradition with a vibrant, international campus life. Its historic colleges, libraries and concert halls coexist with modern research centers across disciplines from law and humanities to engineering and biomedical sciences.

Coimbra offers a broad academic portfolio with strong research output, international exchange programs and multidisciplinary centers that foster innovation. The university is especially well known for its law, arts, social sciences and health faculties, and it participates actively in Erasmus and global partnerships that facilitate study abroad and collaborative research. Students benefit from structured academic advising, language support and numerous cultural activities tied to the city’s student traditions.

Student life is shaped by rich traditions, lively academic societies and a compact city layout that makes it easy to combine study and cultural exploration. International students enjoy access to modern facilities, research opportunities and a welcoming community with a strong focus on academic excellence and cultural exchange. For those seeking a historically rich European university experience with robust research networks and an active international student community, the University of Coimbra offers a compelling academic and cultural environment.

The Service-learning for social inclusion program is a non-degree course for primary and secondary school teachers, taught in Portuguese at the University of Coimbra in Portugal. It lasts for 20 hours over three days, focusing on innovative teaching strategies for social inclusion and active citizenship.

The curriculum includes lectures, round tables, and workshops on Service-Learning principles, teaching participants to implement projects that foster civic values and responsibility. Practical applications are emphasized, connecting theory to real-world social impact.

Graduates can pursue roles like educational coordinators, community engagement specialists, or curriculum developers, with skills transferable across educational settings. They can work in public or private institutions, becoming change agents in their communities.