The National School of Public Health of NOVA University of Lisbon (NOVA NSPH) organised the Closing Forum of the 6th edition of the Academy for the Empowerment of Patient Associations (ACAD), bringing together representatives from academia, patient associations, policymakers, and partners in the health sector.
“Architectures of the Possible: Pathways to Sustainability for Patient Associations” was the theme of this event, dedicated to reflecting on professionalisation and the various ways of thinking about sustainability in the social sector.
At the opening session, held on 22 July, the Dean of NOVA NSPH highlighted the importance of ACAD as an example of excellence in the School’s commitment to strengthening organisations working on the ground. “Citizen participation in health is not an option – it is a necessity,” stated Sónia Dias, underlining the vital role of patient associations in building a more informed, inclusive, and people-centred health system.
For over five decades, NOVA NSPH has sought to combine academic knowledge with civic engagement, developing solutions with real impact on the lives of communities. In this context, ACAD represents a strategic investment by the School in promoting spaces for learning, sharing, and co-creation, with the goal of strengthening networks and skills while recognising the value of the work carried out by patient associations.
In her speech, the Dean recalled the Public Health White Paper, launched by the School in 2024 with contributions from over 80 national and international partners. Among the strategic recommendations presented, active citizen engagement is highlighted as a key condition for transforming the health system and addressing the complex challenges of the future.
The ACAD Closing Forum included moments of reflection, listening, and collaborative work around the topic of sustainability in patient associations, raising important questions on organisational models, professionalisation, and the balance between mission and available resources.
Sónia Dias also reaffirmed NOVA NSPH’s ongoing commitment to promoting initiatives that empower citizens and open institutions to public participation. “This School will remain open and available to walk alongside you in building solutions that are ever more just, more sustainable, and more responsive to people and communities,” she concluded, thanking Roche for supporting the initiative and acknowledging the work developed within ACAD by Ana Rita Goes, faculty member at NOVA NSPH.
