78th Annual SBPC Meeting in Niterói Showcases Science, Inclusion, and National Development

The 78th Annual Meeting of the Brazilian Society for the Progress of Science (SBPC) is set to take place from July 26 to August 1, 2026, in Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, marking its return to Rio after 32 years. With the theme "Science for All: Sovereignty, Development, and Inclusion," the event emphasizes the critical role of science in societal progress and national sovereignty. Hosted in partnership with the Niterói City Hall and the Carlos Chagas Filho Foundation for Research Support of the State of Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ), and supported by the Itaú Foundation, the meeting will feature over 700 scientific and cultural activities, including planetarium shows, interactive experiences, and discussions on sustainability and technology. Approximately 50,000 attendees are expected.

Highlighting the scientific community's engagement, PROIFES-Federação will conduct a series of lectures focusing on the importance of teaching careers and scientific sovereignty, underlining the need for investment in educators and research conditions as pivotal to Brazil's development. The opening lecture, titled "Scientific Sovereignty and Teaching Career: Why There is No Development Without Those Who Do Science," will be moderated by Professor Enio Pontes de Deus. Additional lectures will explore federal funding, institutional futures, and data sovereignty in the age of artificial intelligence.

In a significant move demonstrating governmental involvement, President of Brazil is scheduled to meet with leaders from the science and technology sectors on July 24 at the SBPC headquarters in São Paulo. This meeting will also include Ministers Luciana Santos (Science, Technology and Innovation) and Leonardo Barchini (Education), alongside the Brazilian Academy of Sciences president Helena Bonciani Nader. The event will be live-streamed, underscoring the administration's commitment to science policy dialogue.

The SBPC event culminates with a Family Day in Science on August 1, aimed at fostering connections between researchers and the public, and promoting inclusivity in scientific engagement. The program also focuses on diversity issues such as gender equity and indigenous participation in science. The comprehensive scope of activities and high-profile participation highlights the SBPC meeting's role as Latin America's premier scientific forum and a platform for uniting science and society in Brazil.