Companhia do Estudo Continues its Mission with the Launch of its 4th Edition

With the new academic year approaching, Companhia do Estudo has opened registration for the 4th consecutive year. Founded by Critical Software, this programme seeks to promote equitable access to education and digital literacy, addressing issues such as school failure and dropout rates. Those interested in registering can check out our new video, which includes testimonials.

This new edition welcomes INSUR: IT as a new partner, joining an existing network of companies that includes Critical Software, Critical Techworks, LTPlabs, Bluepharma, Nest Collective, and Present Technologies.

Patricia Garcia, Sustainability Manager at Critical Software and Coordinator of Companhia do Estudo, emphasises that the most important work so far has been building self-confidence. "We are increasingly encountering children who doubt their potential due to the environments they live in, which are often disconnected from the realities of the job market. For them, pursuing an academic path can be demotivating when they don’t fully understand the future benefits."

Companhia do Estudo is built on four core pillars: Inspire, Motivate, Develop, and Expand. The programme is powered by volunteers and offers mentorship sessions in a one-on-one format or small groups, basic programming classes, and opportunities for children and teens to experience cultural, sports, or tech events to broaden their horizons.

The programme currently has over 100 active volunteers and has supported around 500 children across 25 schools and associations nationwide, providing mentorship, tutoring, training, and events organised by partner companies.

“Many of the young people we support at Companhia do Estudo come from challenging backgrounds and tend to be defensive. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness the small changes at the end of each session when they realise they can and should dream and plan for the future. Some even tell us they want to continue studying and that, in a few years, they’ll be our colleagues,” says Ricardo Almeida, Programme Manager at Critical Software and a project volunteer since 2021.

How to Become a Volunteer

Those interested in joining the Companhia do Estudo volunteer programme can apply individually or through one of the seven partner companies. Volunteers must be currently enrolled in, or have completed, higher education. The project has also been extended to non-native Portuguese-speaking students, so volunteers who can provide mentorship in English are also welcome.

Get all the information you need about Companhia do Estudo and ask any questions you may have at our free webinar:

20th September at 3:30 pm – sign up here.