The IEC acts as an interface between knowledge centers, such as universities and scientific research institutes, and the community, with an emphasis on the school population. Thus, the IEC facilitates knowledge transfer from universities and scientific research institutes to schools. Currently, there is a tendency for schools to assume more autonomy, and have a greater connection to municipalities and other local entities, such as the IEC.

 

The IEC is a prototype of an institution that will need to be implemented, particularly in rural areas, to help in the educational transformation, which will lead to young people from these backgrounds having equal opportunities, compared to young people from cities.

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More than a hundred young scientists from the research institutes of the universities of Coimbra and Aveiro, Biocant and other research institutions participate in the activities of the IEC: