The team from the NOVA National School of Public Health (NOVA NSPH) once again took part in the São Silvestre de Lisboa Race, which took place on 27 December, closing the year with a clear demonstration of team spirit, determination, and commitment to the promotion of health.

On a cold and rainy evening, adverse weather conditions were no match for the motivation of the NOVA NSPH participants, who tackled the 10-kilometre course with energy, good spirits, and a strong sense of mutual support. Whether running or walking, the most important aspect was crossing the finish line together, strengthening bonds and celebrating both physical and mental well-being.

More than just a sporting participation, this initiative reflects NOVA NSPH’s role as a leading institution in Public Health, promoting healthy lifestyles also through example. Encouraging physical activity, social interaction, and teamwork is part of an integrated vision of health, which recognises the importance of movement, collective motivation, and the balance between professional and personal life.

Following the enthusiasm of the previous edition, NOVA NSPH’s presence in this emblematic race once again affirmed itself as a moment of community unity, symbolising the ability to face challenges even in demanding circumstances, with resilience and a positive spirit.

Participation in the São Silvestre de Lisboa Race was thus a symbolic and tangible way to close the year with renewed energy and to enter January with a sense of achievement, commitment, and inspiration – values that NOVA NSPH carries forward daily in teaching, research, and public health practice.

Teresa Magalhães, a faculty member at the NOVA National School of Public Health (NOVA NSPH) and coordinator of the Specialisation Course in Hospital Administration (CEAH), has been elected as a member of the Governing Council of the International Hospital Federation (IHF) for a three-year term, which will extend until 2028.

The appointment was officially announced during the 2025 IHF Congress, following a nomination by the Portuguese Association for Hospital Development. The Governing Council comprises 25 elected members and meets regularly to ensure the strategic oversight of the Federation, monitoring its priorities, programmes, and global positioning in line with the guidance set by the General Assembly.

The International Hospital Federation is an international organisation that brings together hospital associations, policymakers, health leaders, and institutions from around the world, playing a central role in promoting more resilient, efficient, and people-centred health systems. Teresa Magalhães’ election to this body reinforces the international recognition of NOVA NSPH and its expertise in hospital administration, health governance, and the training of leaders in the sector.

Within the Governing Council, Teresa Magalhães will contribute to the definition of the IHF’s strategic directions, bringing an evidence-based perspective grounded in academic experience and the integration of public policy, management, and organisational practice in health to the international debate. Her participation will also strengthen the connection between the Portuguese context and the global challenges faced by health systems, promoting the exchange of knowledge and best practices.

For NOVA NSPH, this election represents recognition of the work carried out in advanced training in hospital administration and public health, as well as the School’s role in empowering professionals and leaders with national and international impact. The presence of a NOVA NSPH faculty member in a strategic IHF body further enhances the international projection of our institution and our contribution to the global discussion on the organisation and governance of health systems.

The Capacity-Building Programme in Care Integration (PCIC) has commenced at the Unidade Local de Saúde do Alto Alentejo (ULSAA). This initiative is a joint effort by ULSAA and the National School of Public Health of NOVA University Lisbon (ENSP NOVA), in partnership with PAFIC. The programme aims to train healthcare professionals in the region to develop and implement innovative care integration solutions, within a context characterised by an ageing population, low population density, and increased challenges in healthcare delivery.

The PCIC was created in response to the need to strengthen competencies in key areas such as coordination across levels of care, management of complex cases, interoperability of health information systems, and the promotion of a patient-centred care model. The training adopts a practical, project-based approach, allowing participants to develop solutions directly applicable to the reality of ULSAA.

The inaugural edition involves approximately 30 professionals, organised into multidisciplinary working groups, and comprises six thematic modules, combining theoretical concepts, implementation tools, innovation, digital health, and applied project development.

The programme is expected to contribute to the training of nearly one hundred professionals, promote the implementation of innovative projects at ULSAA, and strengthen collaboration with local partners, ensuring sustainable solutions for care integration and greater continuity of care for the region’s population.