Sampaio da Nóvoa signs the foreword to the book that was launched on 19 February and brings together testimonies from friends and family.
António Guimarães Rodrigues, former rector of the University of Minho (UMinho) and a unique figure on the academic scene, was honoured on 19 February with the launch of the book ‘Guimarães Rodrigues: uma universidade sem muros’ (Guimarães Rodrigues: a university without walls). This work of homage brings together around 40 texts by people who worked and socialised with António Guimarães Rodrigues during his time at UMinho. The book launch took place in the Great Hall of the UMinho Rectory building, in Largo do Paço, Braga.
The book is the result of an initiative coordinated by Paulo Sampaio, a professor at the UMinho School of Engineering, and was published by UMinho Editora. Acílio Estanqueiro Rocha presented the book at a session that included speeches by the UMinho rector, the book’s coordinator and Manuela Martins, director of UMinho Editora. The book includes a text by the family, a contribution by the current rector of UMinho and a preface signed by Sampaio da Nóvoa. ‘This is not a melancholic tribute to the departure of the Professor, the Rector, the Head or the Friend, but rather a celebration of his life, his commitment and the dedication with which he gave us,’ says the book’s coordinator, Paulo Sampaio, who recalls ’the privilege of being moulded by a noble spirit, who taught us all the true meaning of serving a cause.’
This publication highlights António Guimarães Rodrigues’ contributions to UMinho, where he was pro-rector (2001) and rector (2002 to 2009), as well as to the School of Engineering, of which he was president from 1997 to 2000, and comes as a tribute to his remarkable career, paying homage to a central figure in the university’s recent history and emphasising the lasting impact of his work. With his strategic vision and inspiring leadership, António Guimarães Rodrigues played a decisive role in strengthening the quality of teaching and research, as well as promoting a strong link between academia and society. His dedication to higher education left a legacy that continues to mark the institution and which is now honoured in a book.
The launch session was open to the public and represented a unique opportunity to celebrate the life and work of António Guimarães Rodrigues, through the testimonies and reflections gathered in the publication.
Photos of the session here
SOURCE: UMinhoEditora
