Coimbra Students Protest Future Emigration in Satirical Parade

Thousands of students marched this Sunday afternoon in Coimbra's Queima das Fitas parade, blending political satire with concerns over their professional futures, particularly the need to emigrate.

Political Satire Takes Center Stage

The parade was marked by sharp political critiques, targeting figures like Miguel Arruda, Luís Montenegro, and even Donald Trump. The Electrotechnical and Computer Engineering float cleverly symbolized the government's instability with a 'three-phase take', referencing recent political falls. João Baldaia, a third-year student, emphasized the devaluation of Higher Education and the parade's role in advocating for change.

Photo: Paulo Novais/Lusa

Healthcare System Under Fire

A Medicine float titled 'INEM acudiram' highlighted the degraded state of the National Health Service and INEM. Beatriz Gonçalves voiced the frustration of being trained to help, yet feeling unsupported themselves, pushing many to consider leaving the country.

Brain Drain Concerns

Biomedical Engineering students showcased the brain drain issue, with their faces pasted on a plane, symbolizing the exodus of talent. Carolina Novo pointed out the irony of the government investing in their education but failing to provide conditions to stay.

Combating Misinformation

Law students focused on improving faculty conditions and the impact of tourism on academic life, while Pharmacy students critiqued global health policies and political interference in education.

A Mix of Emotions

As the parade concluded, students like Miguel Correia expressed a bittersweet mix of achievement and anxiety about the future, while parents like Jorge Novo shared concerns over their children's need to emigrate.

Concert Nights Ahead

The Queima das Fitas continues until May 31, featuring concerts by artists like Pimbamix, Quim Barreiros, and international acts such as Natasha Bedingfield, promising a vibrant close to the event.