On December 15, Iscte celebrated 48 years. This anniversary was marked by the launch of new projects and the celebration of almost five decades of growth, innovation and contributions to the Portuguese society. Within the strategic projects announced, some examples are the installation of the "Iscte Knowledge & Innovation" center, the creation of a school of digital applied technologies in partnership with the Municipality of Sintra, the expansion of accommodation for university students and the "Iscte Health Initiative", with the purpose of contributing to current health challenges. For detailed information on the list of strategic projects 2020-22, please click this link.

On the next day, Iscte was awarded with the Order of Public Instruction by the President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa. The President praised the "48 years of singular affirmation" of the institution "in the university world and, therefore, in Portuguese society".

The Order of Public Instruction is a Portuguese order of civil merit, conferred for "high services rendered to education and teaching”.