EPM calls for increased support from Portugal

The Portuguese School of Macau (EPM) is facing a teacher shortage and is calling on the Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation of Portugal (MECI) to provide financial support and accelerate recruitment, according to EPM Foundation president Neto Valente.

Speaking at a conference in Lisbon late last week, Valente said the EPM needs “top professionals” to maintain its position as a “benchmark school” in learning, according to a report from Ponto Final.

He said the school must “mobilize itself to keep up with and surpass the advantages that newer schools can offer” by adopting “strict management of the funds made available to it.”

Valente highlighted the need for “major improvement works” at the school due to existing space limitations.

He said MECI support is essential, both financially and in providing teachers, as well as in recognizing the qualifications obtained by students.

The EPM was created by Decree-Law No. 89-B/98.

It has faced several setbacks over the years, including the failure to fully comply with the financial fund provided by the Portuguese State and the Fundação Oriente, as well as the commitment made by the Portuguese State to provide an annual subsidy to guarantee its share and the financial resources necessary for the school’s operation.

With 780 students, most of whom are not native speakers of Portuguese, Valente said the school’s operating costs amount to 8 million euros, with the Portuguese State contributing just 10% of the total expenses.

He said the EPM is a “Portuguese school in China” and receives support from the Macau government, without interference, which is why the Portuguese government must also collaborate to ensure its continued success. Victoria Chan