Under the theme "No One Is Invisible," the 30th National Education Convention was held from April 10–12, 2026, at the Setúbal Adventist College (CAS). The event convened 70 education professionals, including both teaching and non-teaching staff, for a period of specialized training, reflection, and knowledge-sharing centered on the development of truly inclusive educational environments.
Across 15 hours of certified professional development, participants explored practices focused on equity, respect for diversity, and the maximization of student potential. The convention reinforced its status as a cornerstone of the Adventist Educational Network's ongoing professional development program.
Training, Integration, and Theoretical Frameworks
The program commenced on Friday with the formation of heterogeneous working groups designed to foster interaction among professionals from diverse educational contexts. The inaugural session, led by Dr. Cláudia Neves, focused on "Neurodevelopmental Disorders," providing essential insights into the contemporary challenges faced within the classroom setting.
Focus on Inclusive Practice and Collaboration
Saturday’s proceedings integrated spiritual reflection with institutional recognition. Led by Pastor José Lagoa and the director of the Education Department, João Daniel Faustino, these sessions acknowledged years of service and emphasized the mission-driven nature of the educational profession.
Central to the day's agenda were small-group discussions addressing core pedagogical values, including empathy in teaching and the objective of valuing every student’s potential regardless of individual limitations.
Technical sessions continued into the afternoon and evening, featuring contributions from Professor Susana Lucas and Dr. Sónia Moreira (PhD). Their presentations focused on:
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) – Providing frameworks to accommodate individual learning differences.
Pedagogical Assessment – Utilizing assessment tools as a vehicle for inclusion.
Complementing the academic program, a visit to the Fort of São Filipe offered participants an opportunity for professional networking and community building.
Conclusion and Practical Application
The convention concluded on Sunday with a workshop entitled "Cooperating to Include – Cooperative Learning Methods", conducted by Dr. Sónia Moreira. This session equipped educators with practical tools to transform classroom diversity into a collaborative advantage, fostering a culture of mutual support.
Purpose-Driven Education
The 30th National Education Convention reaffirmed the Adventist Educational Network's commitment to creating learning environments grounded in universal kindness and respect for human dignity. By prioritizing these pillars, the institution continues to align its educational practices with its core mission of holistic student development.
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