On 20 June, the School of Economics, Management and Political Science at the University of Minho celebrated its 3rd Graduation Day, in a particularly symbolic event: for the first time, the ceremony took place at the EEG, bringing together more than 350 people in the natural amphitheatre on the Gualtar Campus in Braga.
The event brought together final-year students from bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programmes, accompanied by family members, friends, lecturers and staff from the School. More than just a formal degree-awarding ceremony, Graduation Day stood out as a moment of recognition, a sense of belonging and a collective celebration of the students’ academic journeys.
The session began with a speech by the President of the EEG, Luís Aguiar-Conraria, followed by the lecture “I have a degree. Now what?”, delivered by Gonçalo Lobo Xavier, a School alumnus and Director-General of the Portuguese Association of Distribution Companies (APED). Drawing on his academic and professional experience, Gonçalo Lobo Xavier reflected on the challenges of transitioning into the labour market, emphasising the importance of initiative, adaptability and the conscious development of a career path.
The programme also included the presentation of diplomas to the graduates, musical performances and a social cocktail reception, providing opportunities for students, staff and families to socialise.
Holding the ceremony at the School itself reinforced the community spirit of the event and highlighted the connection between EEG and its students, even as they complete a stage of their journey.
EEG Graduation Day 2026 thus marked the end of an academic cycle, but also the beginning of new paths. For the graduates, it was a day of achievement and promise. For the School, it was a celebration of the talent, effort and ambition of a new generation of EEG graduates.
