This year, the Faculty of Health Sciences and Nursing and the School of Nursing (Lisbon) are celebrating Christmas with an initiative that combines tradition, creativity, and sustainability. Entitled “Nativity Scene: From Theses to Art,” the nativity scene was designed by collaborator Otília Calheiros, who transformed old academic theses into artistic pieces that recreate the figures of the nativity scene.

Through a completely manual process, Otília Calheiros reused discarded paper, giving new life to materials that would otherwise be part of academic waste. The result is a work that symbolizes not only the birth of Jesus, but also the commitment of FCSE and EEL to more conscious and ecological practices.

The nativity scene is on display in the Library Building on the 2nd floor, where the entire community is invited to participate in a special way. Next to the installation is a jar—a space where students, teachers, and staff can take an inspiring message and leave a thought, prayer, or wish for hope this Christmas.

With this simple and communal gesture, the two organic units wish everyone a Holy and Merry Christmas, reinforcing values of sharing, sustainability, and unity.