Youth associations are one of the best ways to develop strong civic spirit, says Regional Director for Youth
The Regional Director for Youth stressed in Ponta Delgada the role of associations as "one of the best ways to develop a strong and committed civic spirit among Azorean youth."
Lúcio Rodrigues spoke during the celebration of the 36th anniversary of the Academic Association of the University of the Azores. On the occasion, he stressed "the dynamics, the effort and the work that the Academic Association develops on a daily basis for the benefit of students," praising this youth institution for its anniversary.
The Regional Director emphasised that, "without the existence of this academic association, the university experience of young people would be certainly different and for the worse"; it would be "a poorer experience."
In his speech, Lúcio Rodrigues expressed his "special recognition" to all volunteers, students and working students, stressing that they "work hard and give a part of themselves to the student community by promoting sports, cultural, academic and social solidarity activities."
Lúcio Rodrigues highlighted the major challenge the Region is facing, which is to encourage young people who study at the University of the Azores or outside the archipelago to "settle here and contribute to the development of the nine islands."
The Regional Director assured that the Government of the Azores will continue to be "a committed partner of the Academic Association in order to enhance a relation that has been mutually beneficial over the years."
At the ceremony, the Academic Association of the University of the Azores awarded the Honorary Member distinction to the Regional Government, following a decision taken by the student council plenary.