Municipality of Celorico de Basto invests in knowledge and economy around camellias

The Municipality of Celorico de Basto established, at the start of the International Camellia Festival, some strategic partnerships that aim to boost knowledge and the economy around camellias.

The protocols were signed with the University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro – UTAD and the Fermil Professional School – EPAESN, with the objective “develop knowledge and boost the economy around camellias, a natural and cultural value of the municipality”. Therefore, it is expected, through new initiatives, “boost the camellia sector in several aspects, promoting its appreciation and contributing to the sustainable economic growth of the municipality”.

The signed protocols will result “scientific studies on camellias, in the area of ​​identification, classification and good plant development techniques, the promotion of professional training courses related to their multiplication, as well as the implementation of initiatives for the tourist and commercial valorization of this resource“. All these measures could also culminate in the creation of “employment and entrepreneurship opportunities in the sector”.

The president of Celorico de Basto City Council, José Peixoto Lima, highlighted the importance of these strategic partnerships, stating that “This is a moment of great relevance for our municipality. Camellias are an integral part of our identity and have an economic potential that is far from being fully explored. By joining efforts with education and training institutions such as UTAD and EPAESN, we are investing in knowledge and innovation, affirming Celorico de Basto as a true Capital of Camélias, creating the foundations for sustainable development, which allows us to mitigate the effects seasonality of tourism”.

In turn, the rector of UTAD, Emídio Gomes, highlighted the importance of collaboration between academia and local entities: “We know the role we can play in the development of the region where we are located. By pooling our resources and knowledge, we are valuing endogenous resources, fostering innovation and contributing positively to our community”.

The signing of the protocols was signed, symbolically, with the planting of a camellia and the placement of the first identification plate.