The University of the Azores president, Susana Mira Leal, acknowledged yesterday that signing the program contract between the Ministry of Science, Technology and Higher Education and the Azorean Academy is “imminent.”
In fact, she stressed, “it’s not on my desk, but it is on the desk of the Secretary of State. But I’m supposed to receive the finalized version, already agreed between the partners, so that it can be signed.”
Susana Mira Leal confirmed that the digital signature is planned to take place today to speed up the process. However, she noted that a public ceremony will be held later to provide details on the contract terms and highlight the different partners involved.
Regarding the possible existence of backdating in the contract, the Rector preferred not to give any details, saying: “I’m not going to give the terms of the contract just yet. It’s preferable that we wait for the public moment to announce it. Then you will understand exactly the scope, the partners, the amounts and the underlying objectives of the program.”
Correio dos Açores has learned that the program contract “is favorable” financially for the University of the Azores, even exceeding initial expectations.

in Correio dos Açores – Natalino Viveiros, director

Translated to English as a community outreach program from the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute (PBBI) and the Modern and Classical Languages and Cultures Department (MCLL) as part of Bruma Publication and ADMA (Azores-Diaspora Media Alliance)  at California State University, Fresno